Sunderland have completed the signing of Belgium Under-21 international goalkeeper Simon Mignolet from Sint Truidense for an undisclosed fee.
Mignolet, 22, rose to prominence when helping his hometown club to a fourth-placed finish in last season's Jupiler League and was also chased by Dutch giants PSV Eindhoven.
But he opted for a move to Wearside where he will challenge Scotland number one Craig Gordon for a place in the starting XI.
The 6ft 4in stopper becomes manager Steve Bruce's second summer signing following the capture of midfielder Cristian Riveros, who is currently on international duty with Paraguay at the World Cup.
Bruce told the club's official website, www.safc.com: "Simon is an excellent young goalkeeper and he has a lot more to offer. I'm sure he will push our current goalkeepers all the way next season.
"He is a player that we have watched on a number of occasions, as have a lot of clubs in Europe over the last couple of seasons.
"We're delighted to bring him to Sunderland. He'll come back ready for the start of pre-season training and will be looking to push for a place in the team."
Source: PA
