RYAN Astley has ventured north of the border to join Dundee after departing troubled English Premier League side Everton.

The 22 year old Llanfair Caereinion raised defender joins the Scottish Premiership club for an undisclosed fee on a two-and-a-half year deal.

Astley never made a first-team appearance for Everton after coming through their academy, but impressed last season on loan with Accrington Stanley in League One.

The Welshman came through the youth system at Everton and made his debut for their Under 23’s team at the age of 16.

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Ryan Astley gives his first interview as a Dundee player, watch the full interview now on DeeTV.https://t.co/qwuIibqPTu #thedee pic.twitter.com/AnVPSB6F4j

Ryan joined Accrington Stanley for the 22/23 league season and played 32 times for the English League One side in all competitions.

During his time with The Reds, he scored four times and earned many plaudits for his performances.

Astley has been part of the Welsh International set-up from a young age and has represented Wales at Under 17’s, 19’s, 20’s and 21’s level.

Astley said: “It feels amazing to sign for the club and I’m really looking forward to being here.

"I spoke with the gaffer last week and I really liked what he had to say and how I can help the team. Since then it has been slowly happening and I got the call yesterday to travel up to Dundee.

"I know Owen Beck as we have the same agent, so I spoke with Owen a few days ago and he was full of praise for the club, the staff, the players, and everything about it and that sealed it for me, I knew I wanted to sign for Dundee.

"I can’t wait to train with my new teammates and to play in front of the Dundee supporters.”