SUNDERLAND have completed a deal for Danny Batth who has moved to the Stadium of Light on a free transfer.

The 31-year-old becomes the Black Cats second signing of the January transfer window following the arrival of Trai Hume from Linfield.

The former Middlesbrough centre-half has signed an 18-month deal on Wearside and will be available for selection for Sunderland’s home game against Portsmouth.

The experienced defender has been with Wolverhampton Wanderers for the majority of his career in a spell that spanned over 11 years making over 200 appearances. During that time, he had loans spells with Colchester United, Sheffield Wednesday, Sheffield United and Boro.

He completed a £3 million switch to the Potters in 2019 going to make 107 appearances scoring five goals in his time at the Beth 365 Stadium.

An experienced defender in English football, Batth is a three-time promotion winner having played a big role in Wolves eventual ascent to the Premier League.

Despite the fact he has been a regular feature in the Stoke City side this season with 13 appearances, Sunderland have managed to capture their man ahead of the visit of Pompey.

Batth told the Sunderland website: “I’m very happy that this deal is done because this is a juggernaut of a football club and I’m delighted to be a part of its journey.

“This is the perfect set-up for me. I’m really looking forward to playing in front of the home supporters and I’ve already spoken to the Head Coach, who has tried to sign me in the past.

“When the opportunity arose, I thought it would be the perfect option to crack on and do well.”

Black Cats managed Lee Johnson said: “Danny is a player that I’ve tried to sign a couple of times before, so it’s third time lucky.

“We have some good characters already in place at the football club and you are always looking to nurture leadership qualities, but Danny’s come ready-made.

“A dominant centre back, he has a great personality and I think he will have really positive effect on and off the pitch.”