OFFICIAL: Saha pens one-year deal

Sunderland have this afternoon signed free agent Louis Saha on a one-year contract as expected.

The 34 year-old striker left Tottenham Hotspur at the end of the season following the expiry of his contract, six months after joining on a free transfer from Everton.

The Parisian started his professional career with French side Metz before being loaned to Newcastle United, scoring once in five starts.

Saha’s next stint in the Premier League was notable as he joined Fulham for £2.1m, spending four years with the Cottagers.

During his spell at Craven Cottage, Saha bagged 53 goals in 100 league starts before earning a £12.8m move to Manchester United.

Saha spent a further four years with Old Trafford but the majority of his time at the Theatre of Dreams was plagued by injury as he made just 52 starts, scoring 28 league goals for the Red Devils.

Granted a free transfer to Everton, Saha took full advantage and repaid David Moyes faith with 27 league strikes for the Toffees in just 65 league starts for the club.

With injuries taking their toll at Goodison Park, Saha moved again on a free, linking up with Harry Redknapp’s Spurs on a short-term deal, scoring three in just five starts for the North London outfit.

The 6’0 striker made his debut for the French national side in 2004 and to date has won 20 full caps for Les Bleus, scoring four international goals.

Speaking to safc.com, Saha revealed his delight at joining the Black Cats:

‘This is a great opportunity; I’m really pleased with the chance to play for such a great club,’ said Saha.

‘I’m delighted and obviously I’m looking forward to start playing for the team.

‘Martin O’Neill has great experience and done great since taking over as manager. It’s a great chance to play under him and I hope to help the side to achieve something.’

Saha became O’Neill’s second free agent addition of summer and the boss was clearly pleased with his new arrival:

‘Louis is a striker whose abilities have been proven at the very highest level and he brings with him a raft of experience of top-flight football.

‘I’m sure he will be a great addition to our squad in an area we recognise needs strengthening and I’m delighted we have been able to complete the deal ahead of our first game of the season.’

Welcome to Sunderland, Louis.