Former Swindon midfielder East's style suits Bradford City

The 23-year-old has been snapped up by Mark Hughes after a season with play-off semi-finalists Swindon.

East, who has joined on an initial two-year deal, made 23 appearances for Ben Garner’s side – who were knocked out on penalties against Port Vale.

He is a deep-lying midfielder who looks to be lined up as the replacement for Elliot Watt.

East said: “I am absolutely delighted to be here. It is a massive club with a proud history and I cannot wait to get going.

“When I met the manager, he sold it to me straight away. He wants to play a style of football that suits me. I like to have the ball on the floor and move it around.

“I think my time at Swindon sets me up well to play here. We did well last year, getting in the play-offs, and I want to go one better than that. The ambition of everyone at the club is clear.

“As a player, you do not want to go somewhere and be happy to sit mid-table. You want to be winning things, and I cannot wait to start playing in front of the fans.”

East started his career with Reading and spent 11 years in the Royals’ youth ranks.

Ryan East spent 11 years with Reading before joining Swindon last year

Joining at the age of nine, he became the club’s 50th academy graduate when making his first-team debut against Leeds in the Championship in March 2019.

City manager Mark Hughes said: “Ryan is a player we are very excited about. We are really pleased to be able to bring to the club.

“His intelligence - both in and out of possession - and reading of the game shows maturity beyond his years.

“He has the ability to dictate play, and fits in well with the brand of football we want to implement.

“At 23, he is still young and at a great age to develop, and we have been impressed by what we have seen of him so far in his career.

“We look forward to seeing him in action and are sure he is excited to show everyone at Bradford City what he can do.”