Whitley has been released by Sunderland after a two year spell

The 30-year-old midfielder, who helped Sunderland win the Championship title last season, signed on a free transfer.

"It's a big opportunity and a new challenge for me, this club wants to make the Premiership," Whitley told Cardiff's official website.

"Dave and his team have come here to take Cardiff forward and I want to be a part of that. It only took a short meeting with Dave to convince me."

Whitley scored for Northern Ireland in September's 2-2 draw with Wales.