Sunderland have signed Belgian goalkeeper Simon Mignolet from Sint Truidense for an undisclosed fee.
The 22-year-old, who has signed a five-year deal, becomes manager Steve Bruce's second signing of the summer.
Bruce told the club's website: "Simon is an excellent young keeper. I'm sure he will push our current keepers all the way next season."
Mignolet said: "I am very proud to be here. The stadium, the facilities - everything about the club is massive."
Bruce, who has also captured Paraguay international midfielder Cristian Riveros during the close season, expects Mignolet to push for a place in the team.
Mignolet will compete with current first-choice Craig Gordon, Marton Fulop and Trevor Carson for the number one jersey.
Bruce added: "He is a player that we have watched on a number of occasions - as have lots of clubs in Europe over the last couple of seasons.
"He'll come back ready for the start of pre-season training and will be looking to push for a place in the team."
Sunderland begin next season with a game match against Bruce's old club Birmingham on Saturday, 14 August.
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