TRAORE SIGNS

Sunderland have confirmed the signing of Bertrand Traore on a one-year contract with the option of a second year. He is the club's third deadline day signing, the second player to arrive from Ajax today and the first player from Burkina Faso to play for the Lads.

With Patrick Roberts joining Birmingham City on loan today it was clear we needed at least one addition on the wing, and Traore brings that. He scored ten goals and registered eight assists in the Netherlands last season.

The 29-year-old said: “I’m really happy to join Sunderland. It’s a huge Club, and for me it feels great to be back in the Premier League. I had some good times here before, so it’s special to return, and I can’t wait to get started. From far away, I’ve seen the way the team has started the season, the movements, the atmosphere around the Club - everything looks positive. I’m excited to be part of this project and part of this team. It helps as well that I already know a few players, like Simon Adingra, and of course Brian (Brobbey), who also joined today. Having those relationships and my past experiences in England will make it easier to settle quickly. I’m looking forward to stepping out at the Stadium of Light and giving my best for the fans.”

Sporting Director, Kristjaan Speakman said: “As a left-footed player who operates on the right, Bertrand is a different type of player to those we already had in our group. He enjoys eliminating opponents one-on-one, and he can also play in multiple positions, with this added versatility providing us with additional options from game to game and in-game. He featured regularly for Ajax last season, and he’s excited to be back in the Premier League, and we are excited to have him in our squad.”