Sunderland have made their first capture of 2013, signing former Bursaspor midfielder Alfred N’Diaye for £3.6m.
The 22 year-old Frenchman has signed a three-and-a-half year contract with the Black Cats after completing his much-anticipated move to Wearside.
Formerly of French Ligue 1 side Nancy, N’Diaye moved to Bursaspor in 2011 after three years with the French club.
In Turkey N’Diaye made 48 starts, scoring three goals in two seasons before Martin O’Neill was prompted to part with a fee believed to be £3.6m.
A former France U17, U19, U20 and current U21 international, N’Diaye spoke of his delight at signing for the Black Cats to safc.com:
“I am very happy to sign for Sunderland and get the chance to play in the Premier League; it was my dream when I was young and I`m so happy to be here.
“I watch the Barclays Premier League all of the time. I looked at Sunderland many times – it`s the best league in the world.’
N’Diaye continued:
“Everybody tells me Sunderland fans are crazy, fanatical fans, and with Saturday`s game at home, I hope it is possible to play and experience that passion!’
O’Neill was equally pleased to have got his man, who will wear the number four jersey:
“Alfred is a strong, powerful young player and as such can offer us more strength in depth.
“He will give us options and I`m delighted that we have been able to bring him to the club.”
A powerful midfielder with great energy and strength, N’Diaye can also play at the centre of defence and is eligible for Senegal despite being born in Paris.
Welcome to Sunderland, Alfred!
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