Sheffield Wednesday boss Garry Monk explains his reasons for signing Alessio Da Cruz

Da Cruz joined the Owls a temporary basis from Italian club Parma earlier this week.

The 23-year-old, a former Netherlands Under-20 international, spent the first half of the 2019/20 campaign on loan at Serie B side Ascoli, hitting six goals and weighing in with six assists.

Da Cruz, who can play as a central striker or on the wing, is set to spend the rest of the season on loan at Hillsborough.

Monk said: “Alessio is a player I know well through contacts.

"He fits the profile that we need. He is young, athletic, quick and we don't have that option in the squad. He comes with a hunger and a desire.

"Those are the type of players you need when you are recruiting.

"We are delighted he is in the building. He is something that we have not got.

"He can play in other positions but his main position is striker. It was important that we added that type of player so I am delighted he is here.”

The Star understands Wednesday have first option to sign Da Cruz on a permanent basis should the Dutchman impress during his loan stint.

Monk has confirmed that Da Cruz, who will wear shirt number 38, will be included in the squad for Saturday’s home meeting with Millwall.

But Monk said it would be “unfair” to throw Da Cruz straight into the side after such a quick turnaround.

"He will be involved in terms of the squad,” he said. “He still needs to get up to speed.

"It's a different culture in terms of how we train and the intensity. It's a different league.

"We have to bed him in and help him with that process.

"It is good to have that option in the squad.”

Da Cruz is looking forward to pulling on the blue and white stripes.

“It has always been my dream to play in England,” he said. “I want to be involved straight away if possible and I am ready to play.”