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Bruce Completes Leeds Move - Ipswich Town News

Leeds United have confirmed the signing of defender Alex Bruce on a two-year contract with an option of a third season. The clubs agreed a fee of £200,000 rising to £300,000 on appearances earlier in the week, Bruce having previously been close to joining Sheffield United.

Whites boss Simon Grayson said: "Alex is going to be a good member of the squad. He can play at centre-back, right-back and as a holding midfielder.

"We felt we were short in those areas at this moment and we're delighted he's come. He's got a lot of experience, he's played in the Championship and the Premiership and he's what we want - a player who knows the division, is hungry and wants to be successful."

Grayson says he first targeted the Republic of Ireland international last year: "We tried to sign him a year ago when we were in League One.

"Ipswich wouldn't let him go, then we got a call a week ago to say he was available, and everything got agreed."

Bruce confirmed that he had been close to joining Sheffield United last week: "I went to Sheffield to see them last weekend. Then I got a phone call telling me about Leeds' interest and my mind was all on coming here.

"A fee had to be agreed with Ipswich, but once that was all done. Everyone knows the kind of club this is. It's a huge club with a massive fanbase and a great support. It's a good ambition of mine to help this club get promoted again."

Bruce spent four years at Portman Road, making 123 starts and four sub appearances, scoring three goals.

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