Dale Stephens has thanked Albion after confirming he's moving to Burnley. 

The Bolton-born midfielder, 31, has been the subject of several bids over the past four years and joined the Clarets for a fee understood to be £1million, potentially rising to £2.5m.

Stephens today thanked the club and fans, writing on Instagram: "7 seasons of amazing memories! Thanks you."

And hundreds of people replied, saying they would miss the midfielder.

One said: "Good luck! Thanks for everything!"

Another replied: "We will miss you."

The Argus:

And a third wrote: "Legend! Thanks for your commitment to the club and good luck at Burnley!"

Stephens told the Burnley website: "I'm very happy. It's probably taken a few more years than expected but I'm happy to get it over the line this week and finally become a Burnley player.

"I've been away from the North-West for a while. It's nice to come back to where the family resides as well.

"But most importantly I'm coming back to a Premier League football club that's done well in recent years in this league and I'm excited for that challenge."

Burnley have long been interested in Stephens, who added: "I'm probably a better player now than when Burnley tried to sign me initially, with the experience I've had over the last three years.

SEE ALSO: Dale Stephens' exit feels like significant moment for Albion

"I've probably learned a lot playing in this division for the last few years.

"Individually, I want to play as many games as I can at as a high a level as possible and, collectively, help us improve as a team and finish as high as we can in the Premier League."

The 31-year-old has been at Brighton for six years, making 223 appearances.

Brighton head coach Graham Potter said: "The number of appearances Dale has made for the club speaks volumes for his contribution to the team over recent seasons.

"He has been a model professional throughout my time at the club and, as one of the more senior members of our squad, he has been a great influence and example to the younger players coming through.

"We have fantastic competition for the midfield positions and with Dale's desire to play regularly, this represents a good move for both the club and Dale; he leaves with our thanks and very best wishes for the future."