SUNDERLAND confirmed today that defender Billy Jones has agreed a four-year deal at the Stadium of Light and will become a Sunderland player from July 1, 2014.

Speaking about the move, the 27-year-old said: “I'm really happy to be here and I'm looking forward to getting back for pre-season and kicking on.

“I've played at the Stadium of Light a number of times so I know what it's about and what great backing the club has.

“I've come to the training ground today and it's amazing. I knew I was signing for a massive club with everything in place to kick on up the league and carry on moving forward.”

Jones spent three years at The Hawthorns, making more than 70 appearances for the Baggies having joined from Preston North End in 2011. The versatile defender began his career with Crewe Alexandra, rising through their academy to play more than 130 times for the club. He then moved to Preston North End, spending four years at Deepdale.