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Begovic joins Stoke from Pompey

LONDON (AFP) - Stoke signed goalkeeper Asmir Begovic from Premier League rivals Portsmouth on Monday's transfer deadline day for a fee of 3.25 million pounds, the buying club announced.

The 22-year-old Bosnia international signed a four-and-a-half-year contract shortly before the window closed and his move is set to see some much needed funds find their way to Fratton Park where cash-strapped Portsmouth, bottom of the top flight table, face a winding up order from British tax authorities.

"Asmir is someone we have been tracking for some time and we believe that potentially he is the best young keeper in the country," said Stoke manager Tony Pulis.

Last month Pulis tried to sign another Pompey goalkeeper in David James but the loan deal collapsed over the issue of the England international's wages.

Begovic will compete with Danish international Thomas Sorensen for the starting XI spot.

Sorensen was in fine form later on Monday as Stoke eked out a 0-0 draw with Sunderland in their Premier League clash and Pulis made clear that Begovic was not going to be an automatic starter.

"He (Begovic) is a great addition to the squad," said Pulis.

"Thomas Sorensen did very well tonight (Monday).

"He (Begovic) is going to be part of the squad and if he gets a chance it's up to him, to take it."