Fulham clinch McBride deal

The West Londoners made a late move to sign the former Everton star from under the noses of Blackburn after it seemed a switch to Ewood Park was close to completion.

Fulham stepped up their interest in the Columbus Crew ace after selling Louis Saha to Manchester United, and McBride will help bolster Chris Coleman's attacking options.

The Whites have struck a deal with MLS to take McBride to Loftus Road, and he will join up with fellow US international Carlos Bocanegra.

McBride has penned a two-and-a-half-year deal with the move subject to a medical and successful application for a work permit

"Brian is a great talent who can combine assisting attacking play as well as getting his fair share of goals," a delighted Coleman told the club's official website.

"He has superb aerial ability and has already proved that he can perform each week at the highest level. His experience of the Premiership will also prove a valuable asset to us in the coming months."

The 31-year-old impressed during his spell at Everton last season and he enjoyed a short stint at Preston before joining Everton.

Meanwhile, Saha has passed his medical at Old Trafford and is set to seal his move on Friday.