BEN Pearson has completed a permanent return to Championship outfit Stoke City from Cherries, it has been announced.

28-year-old midfielder Pearson spent the last six months of the 2022-23 campaign on loan at the Potteries, making 14 appearances in the second tier.

A January signing from Preston North End in January 2021, Pearson had one year remaining on a the three-and-a-half-year deal he signed on arrival.

The Daily Echo understands that Stoke parted with an undisclosed fee, as Pearson signs a four-year contract at the bet365 Stadium.

In total, Pearson made 55 appearances across what was effectively two seasons, the former Manchester United man playing his football elsewhere for the first half of the 2020-21 season and the second portion of the previous campaign.

Speaking on his permanent switch, Pearson told Stoke’s website: “From the end of last season, I have held a desire to return here, and I am glad that the opportunity has now materialised for me.

“I think the manager has a trust in me and what I can deliver on the pitch for him in terms of my consistency, work rate and execution of the gameplan.

“That trust is reciprocated, and I firmly believe he has a playing style and methods that will be successful in the Championship.

“I really appreciated the support from the fans during my four months at the Club last season.

“It has been a nice feeling hearing how much they wanted me to return, and I want to repay them for that because, both personally and collectively, I know we can improve significantly on last season.”

Aside from the loan spell last term, Pearson worked with Stoke boss Alex Neil at Preston for three-and-a-half years at Deepdale.

Stoke technical director Ricky Martin added: “Bringing Ben back to the Club on a permanent basis was a priority in our recruitment this summer.

“He knows what it takes to win in the Championship having been successful with Preston and Bournemouth. He also thrives off working with Alex and is well suited to the high tempo football we want to play.

“We’re aiming to build a culture whereby the supporters feel a connection with the players and vice versa.

“Ben has already built that relationship on loan last season. The fans responded positively to his quality, work ethic and clear desire to win, something he wears on his sleeve every time he steps onto the pitch.”

Pearson becomes the second player to leave Dean Court this summer via a direct transfer, with Christian Saydee also dropping down the pyramid to join League One Portsmouth.

Cherries themselves have completed one transfer, adding winger Justin Kluivert to their ranks from Roma.