The highly rated ex-Manchester United youngster became manager Tony Pulis' fourth signing of the month, following the captures of Leon Cort (£1,200,000), Danny Pugh (£500,000) and Andy Griffin (£300,000).

All four players have penned deals until at least the summer of 2012, and they insist they have joined a club with a very bright future.

Shawcross says: "I have had a fantastic time here, and as soon as I got here I knew I wanted to stay here longer.

"I am delighted to have sorted a permanent move out. Sir Alex Ferguson offered me a new contract, but I turned that down as this is the place I want to be.

"This club is really pushing towards the Premiership and I believe we have what it takes to get there."

Former Newcastle United star Griffin, who re-joined the Potters for a fourth time last week says he had no hesitation in moving back to the Britannia Stadium.

"Even though I was playing in the Premier League for Derby, I wasn't enjoying it anywhere near as much as I did here last season.

"As soon as I knew Stoke were back in for me, I was desperate to come back.

"The club are really going somewhere to be honest, and I am delighted to be a part of it."

Cort, who sealed his move to the club earlier this week says he is desperate for a crack at the top flight, and believes City is the place to realise his dream.

"I wouldn't have come here if I didn't think we could get in to the Premiership.

"I have loved every minute of my time here, and the signings of all the other lads like Ryan and Griff shows how serious this club is about promotion."

Former Leeds man Pugh adds, "Stoke is a massive football club.

"We are fourth in the Championship and in a great position to push for promotion, which is what everybody here wants."