Leeds to sign Northampton's Crowe

Crowe made almost 200 appearances for Northampton

Northampton Town right-back Jason Crowe will join Leeds United at the end of his deal on 1 July after turning down a new contract with the Cobblers.

The 30-year-old started at Arsenal before joining Portsmouth, for whom he made 93 appearances, for £1m in 1999.

He then moved to Grimsby Town before going to Sixfields in 2005.

Leeds boss Simon Grayson told the club website: "There was a lot of interest in him and we've beaten a number of clubs to get him."

He continued: "He's a versatile right-back, and he's been a very consistent performer over the last couple of seasons.

It's a fantastic club with a massive fan base. I know Bradley Johnson from his time at Northampton and I'll be speaking to him

Right-back Jason Crowe

"I see Jason as another valuable member of our squad with the aim being to get promoted next season."

Crowe, who scored twice for Northampton in the 5-2 FA Cup defeat by Leeds at Sixfields in November, said: "I'm a free agent and I've had a few offers, but this was my first choice and thankfully it's come off.

"It's a fantastic club with a massive fan base. I know Bradley Johnson from his time at Northampton and I'll be speaking to him."

Crowe will replace out-of-contract United defender Frazer Richardson, who leaves the club after 168 appearances.

The former academy product, who was made captain by former Leeds manager Gary McAllister, failed to hold down a place at Elland Road under Grayson.

The 26-year-old made only five appearances under the new manager with the last as a substitute against Northampton in the 3-0 home win in May 2009.