Bradford City have splashed out their second highest transfer fee by signing Crewe midfielder Gareth Whalley for £600,000 with manager Paul Jewell pledging that his spending spree has not stopped yet.

The 24-year-old is the City boss's fourth signing of the summer, the left-footed player providing much-needed competition in the Bantams midfield.

Whalley, who joined Crewe as a schoolboy 12 years ago, made 180 league appearances for the Railwaymen and last summer looked to be the latest Gresty Road player set to move to the Premiership in a big money deal.

He spent several weeks training with both Liverpool and Tottenham, but eventually stay-ed with Crewe. Whalley missed the first half of last season, but was called into the Republic of Ireland squad in April.

The City boss said: "When I heard that Gareth might be available, I had to make a move. He is a good footballer with an impressive left foot and I am looking for him to make a big impact for us."

Whalley has signed a four-year deal, subject to a medical later today, and could make his debut in tomorrow's friendly with Derby at Valley Parade.

He said: "Bradford are spending a lot of money at the moment and seem to be an up and coming club. I had only got one year left on my contract at Crewe so I needed to get it sorted out."

City have also agreed a £150,000 fee with Crewe for defender Ashley Westwood.

The clubs had been in dispute over the fee with City chairman Geoffrey Richmond threatening to challenge the Football League regulations in the European courts.

He said: "I am extremely pleased with the outcome. They were asking £650,000, while we were offering £150,000. I think it represents good business for Bradford City."

Asked if the Football League had urged both clubs to settle the matter, he said: "There have been a lot of discussions behind the scenes and that is all I can say."

Jewell said: "I still want to bring two, possibly three more players in."

City are still believed to be tracking Leicester City's £400,000 rated midfielder Robert Ullathorne.

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