TALBI SIGNS

Sunderland have confirmed the signing of Chemsdine Talbi from Club Brugge on a five-year deal.

Talbi marks the fifth senior signing on Wearside following Enzo Le Fee, Noah Sadiki, Reinildo and Habib Diarra. The Belgium-born winger is just 20 years old but last season contributed seven goals and five assists in 44 appearances, including 11 Champions League appearances and two goals on the European stage.

Having represented Belgium at youth level, Talbi declared his intention to represent Morocco earlier this year. He is able to play on either wing, adding pace and versatility to Sunderland's attacking ranks.

Talbi said: "I'm really excited to be here and grateful for the opportunity to play for this Club. I made the decision because it’s a great project with a talented, exciting team full of young players – and that really motivated me. The Premier League is the biggest and best league in the world, so I’m looking forward to getting started. I know the fans will get behind me from the start, and I can’t wait to see them at the stadium."

Kristjaan Speakman added: “Our momentum and story are powerful, and I think players of Chemsdine’s calibre, who are in high demand, are excited by the prospect of playing for Sunderland AFC. It’s a testament to our recent past and immediate future that he feels this we are the right Club for his next step. Predominantly playing wide right, Chemsdine excels in duels and possesses elite physical qualities, and he also has flexibility to play across the frontline. Our supporters will rightly be excited to see him play, and we are delighted to welcome him to Sunderland.”