Blues have completed the signing of German defender Kai Wagner.
The left-back has joined from MLS side Philadelphia Union on a two-and-a-half-year contract.
It is believed the fee for Wagner is around £2 million.
The 28-year-old has proven himself best in class in the MLS after moving to the US from Würzburger Kickers in 2019.
Three times an MLS All-Star, Wagner is noted for his fast and direct style and a stack of assists.
Union had the best overall record in the MLS this season, but were knocked out in the Eastern Conference semi-finals in November.
Wagner made 253 appearances for Union, and scored 10 goals. He was a hugely popular figure in the City of Brotherly Love.
Here at Forever Blues we first revealed that Wagner was on his way to the club.
He will provide stern competition for Alex Cochrane, Blues established left-back. But because of his playing style traits, it could be that Wagner is used in an advanced role as another option across the front three. He might not be a straight replacement, depending on whatever tactical set-up is required.
Wagner was included in the MLS Best XI at the culmination of this campaign, for a second time, which is based on positional average rating.
Wagner also won the Supporters’ Shield with Union as the league’s best regular season team in 2020, and he helped them to their first ever MSL Cup Final appearance in 2022.
“The contributions Kai has made to this club over the last seven seasons have been nothing short of exceptional,” Union head coach Bradley Carnell commented. “He has been a crucial piece of this team’s success over the past seven seasons, and we remain grateful not only for his consistent dedication and hard work, but his staunch leadership qualities both on and off the field.
“At this time, we are honouring Kai’s wishes to continue his career in Europe, as he feels this is the right step for him and his family. We wish him all the best and know he will continue to find success.”
