Keeper Gordon has signed a five-year deal with Sunderland

His switch from Hearts could eventually be a British record deal for a goalkeeper but the 24-year-old is just relieved his future has been resolved.

"It has been quite difficult. I've known about the speculation for the last five or six weeks," he said.

The Scotland goalkeeper has signed a five-year contract with the Black Cats.

Interview: Sunderland goalkeeper Craig Gordon

Interview: Sunderland boss Roy Keane

It is understood that Sunderland, who fought off competition from Aston Villa, will pay an initial �7m.

The Tynecastle club will receive a further �2m, following a certain number of appearances.

I don't think I'll be the most expensive goalkeeper for very long Craig Gordon

The current British transfer record for a goalkeeper currently stands at the �7.8m Manchester United paid for Fabien Barthez in 2000.

Gordon admitted it was a "wrench" to leave Hearts but said it was time to test himself at a higher level.

"To leave Hearts behind - the club I supported as a boy - is hard but you come down here and see the difference between the SPL and the Premiership and it is something you have to go and experience," he added.

Gordon believes the Premier League newcomers are a massive club and are moving in the right direction under manager Roy Keane.

On the subject of his possible record transfer fee for a goalkeeper in Britain, he said: "Prices are going up all over the place and it's a big story because it's a goalkeeper but I expect the prices to keep rising.

"I don't think I'll be the most expensive for very long."