Ghana captain Jordan Ayew has joined Sheffield United on a free transfer, with the EFL Championship club announcing the signing on Tuesday.

The 34-year-old signed a one-year contract with the Blades after leaving Leicester City in July when his contract expired.

Speaking to Sheffield United’s club media, Ayew said the move came together quickly after a phone call from Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder.

“It happened really, really quick because I was in Ghana and the manager called me last week. I didn't think twice; I just took the opportunity,” he revealed.

Wilder said he was pleased to bring Ayew to the club and praised his experience at the highest level.

“We're talking about someone here with bags of experience from right at the top level of the game. Only a few months ago he was captaining Ghana in the World Cup, so he's someone with real pedigree,” he underscored.

Wilder added that Ayew's ability to play across the front positions would give the team more options.

“He did well at this level last season in difficult circumstances and has played all across the front positions during his career which gives us plenty of options.”

Ayew arrives with more than 500 competitive appearances for clubs including Marseille, Sochaux, Lorient, Aston Villa, Swansea City, Crystal Palace and Leicester City.

He is expected to bring his experience to a Sheffield United side that has won just one of its opening five Championship matches.

Ayew said his immediate focus is on helping the team achieve its objectives.

“The most important thing is for me to help the team and obviously for us to have a great season. I have a lot of desire this season to make an impact and to help the team because we have a good squad and there's a lot of positive things we can do,” he added.

Wilder said Sheffield United had previously benefited from using the free-agent market and believes Ayew can have a similar impact. 

“We used the free market to great effect last season, and we believe Jordan can come in have an impact here just like Pat (Bamford) and Jaïro (Riedewald) did.”