The 34-year-old former England international had been holding out for a two-year contract at the Hawthorns but Albion were only prepared to offer one year.

Phillips, who scored 46 goals in 81 appearances for Albion, has now opted to join Blues on a two-year contract.

He netted 24 goals in 38 appearances last season and was named West Brom's Player of the Year and included in the PFA Championship Team of the Year.

second year

Speaking before the deal was completed, Baggies manager Tony Mowbray said: "I find it very difficult to hand out two-year contracts to 35-year-olds, however well they have done.

"I genuinely believe that if Kevin wants to stay he should back his ability and earn his second year, which is not a big task on the contract that we put in front of him.

"But I wouldn't ever get into any open disagreement with him because I respect him so much."