SUNDERLAND have confirmed the capture of midfielder Liam Bridcutt from Brighton.

Bridcutt has signed a three-and-a-half year deal with the Black Cats, and moves for an undisclosed fee, which is understood to be £3m.

The 24-year-old began his career with Chelsea, spending three years with the Blues as a youngster, and enjoyed loan spells with Yeovil Town, Watford and Stockport before joining Brighton in 2010, when Gustavo Poyet signed him for The Seagulls.

The midfielder made over 150 appearances for the Amex Stadium club, including 140 games under Poyet.

Last year, Bridcutt made his senior Scotland debut when he played against Serbia.

It remains to be seen whether Bridcutt's arrival will lead to the departure of Lee Cattermole later today, with Stoke City hoping to sign the Teessider.