French defender Gael Givet joins Blackburn after a successful loan stint

Blackburn Rovers have signed defender Gael Givet after an impressive loan spell at Ewood Park last season.

The versatile French international can play at centre-back or at left-back and joins for £3.5 million.

Blackburn boss Sam Allardyce made the permanent capture of Givet one of his summer priorities following his successful loan at the end of last season.

Givet joins from Marseille where he had become surplus to requirements following a successful start to his career at Monaco.

After arriving in the January transfer window, the 27-year-old adapted quickly to life in the Premier League and his all-action displays at left-back allowed Stephen Warnock to push on into midfield.

He could play more at centre-back this year and will want to build on the three Fantasy League points he scored during his debut campaign.