Walsall have completed the permanent signing of Stoke City defender David Okagbue, who returns to the Saddlers on a two-year deal following a successful loan spell last season.Joining the Saddlers on a season-long loan last summer, David made thirty-five first-team appearances, grabbing a crucial goal during the Saddlers' 2-1 victory over Accrington Stanley in February.
The Dublin-born defender joined the Potters as an apprentice from St Kevin's Boys Club in 2020, and, along with his spell with the Latics and a previous stint at Chester, has played for various age groups during his time in Stoke.
20-year-old Okagbue, who turned down an offer of a new contract with Stoke, spent some of the 2022/23 campaign on loan with National League side Oldham Athletic where he made ten first-team appearances, scoring one goal along the way.
Saddlers boss Mat Sadler admitted he was really pleased to be able to welcome David back to the club, with the gaffer going on to thank the board for their support.
Speaking via the club's official website, Sadler said: "I am really pleased that we have managed to get Dave over the line.
"It is a deal that we have been working on for a while now and to finally have him in the building as our own player is brilliant.
"When we were made aware that a permanent transfer for Dave was possible, we did absolutely everything we could to make it happen.
"I’d like to say a massive thank you to the board for their continued effort and support in making deals such as this happen as we continue to build as a football club.
"We all saw the qualities that Dave has as a player last season and he gained so much confidence over the course of the year and hopefully he will continue to grow as a player and as a person over the next two years with us.
"Dave showed a real desire to come back to the club and after lots of hard work, I am delighted to have him back in the building.
"I would also like to thank Stoke for their help in getting this deal done and it further strengthens the relationship that we have with them as a club and we hope to further utilise the links between the clubs in the future."