Sunderland have confirmed the deadline day signing of centre-back Joe Anderson on a three-and-a-half year deal from Everton.
The 21-year-old, who captained the Toffees' under-23 side, can also operate as a left-back and will train with his Black Cats team-mates for the first time on Tuesday morning at the Academy of Light.
Sunderland have the club option to extend the deal for a further year and will go straight into contention for their weekend clash with Millwall.
READ MORE: Sunderland transfer news LIVE: Deadline day latest as Black Cats looks for late deals
Anderson said: “I’m over the moon to make the move, the minute the club were interested I wanted to come here. I met the Head Coach and really liked what he had to say, and the fact he was also a centre back means I’ll have a lot to learn from him. It’s a challenge I’m really looking forward to and I can’t wait to get started.”
Sunderland manager Tony Mowbray added: “Joe fits the profile of player we want to keep adding to the club and we look forward to supporting his development in a senior environment.
"The talent and potential is there and although he may need time to develop physically in the next weeks and months, he will add immediate competition and depth to our squad.
"A left-footed, left-sided central defender, which is a rarity, he can distribute the ball well from the back and connect defence with midfield – he is going to be a real long-term asset for the club.”
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