Walsall sign ex-Saddler Florent Cuvelier

The 23-year-old is well known to Saddlers fans after he enjoyed two impressive loan spells with the club back in 2012.

Cuvelier has agreed a one-year-deal to return to the Banks's Stadium and will formally complete his move once his contract with former club Sheffield United expires on July 1.

The Belgian is widely regarded as one of the best central midfielders in League One but has struggled recently with injuries and has made just 24 appearances in the last three years.

But after seeing Romaine Sawyers, Milan Lalkovic, Jason Demetriou and Paul Downing reject new deals with the club - Whitney is delighted to get his man.

"I am really excited about helping Flo fulfil his potential," Whitney said.

"We both agreed that Walsall was the best option for him due to our football philosophy and Flo's previous loan periods with the club.

"He became a fans' favourite during his last time here due to his wholehearted and committed performances.

"He is a player whose career I have followed closely and I look forward to helping him play more minutes and him helping us to write the next successful chapter in Walsall's history."

Born in Anderlecht, Cuvelier spent his youth career in his native Belgium before moving to England with Portsmouth and then Stoke.

"I'm delighted with this opportunity and so happy to be back at Walsall," he said.

"I had a very successful loan spell here a few years ago and I loved every second I spent at the club.

"I've got some great memories and some great friends here. I've worked with Jon Whitney before and I've played with Dean Holden. They are people who have seen me play at my very best.

"I had a good relationship with the fans when I was last here and I always gave my all for the club and that's what I intend to do this time.

"I'm hungrier than ever to have a successful season and I am so happy to be here again. This is a club I love and really want to play for."