JOE Gelhardt has described Sunderland as the "perfect fit" after completing his loan move from Leeds United, with the Black Cats beating several of their Championship rivals to the capture of the highly-rated young forward.

Gelhardt has joined Sunderland on loan until the end of the season, with Leeds making it clear the 20-year-old is still very much part of the long-term thinking at Elland Road.

As many as half a dozen Championship clubs were in for Gelhardt this month, but Sunderland won the race for the Liverpudlian, who believes he will suit Tony Mowbray's style of play.

  • Subscribe to the Northern Echo and take advantage of our January sale HERE.

Gelhardt said: “I know how big the club is and I’m really looking forward to meeting the lads and trying to help.

"I spoke with the head coach and the playing style seemed a perfect fit for me. I’ve watched Sunderland on the TV this season and seen some positive, attacking football and I can’t wait to get involved.”

Delighted boss Mowbray added: “It is no secret that Joe had plenty of options on the table this month, so it is a testament to the club and its staff that he felt Sunderland was the best move for him.

"He has made an impact at Premier League level throughout the past 18 months and he is a really exciting signing, who fits our playing style and will complement a forward line that is already packed with talent.

"I’m sure the fans can’t wait to see him in action and we are looking forward to supporting his development.”

READ MORE:

Gelhardt arrives at the Stadium of Light ready for action having featured 19 times for Leeds in all competitions this season. He's very highly thought of at Elland Road but after the club record capture of Georginio Rutter, the Whites didn't want the young striker to go stale on the bench in the second half of the season or play Under-21 football, prompting the Championship battle for his signature.

A Leeds statement reads: "With the form of Rodrigo, the return to fitness of Patrick Bamford and the arrival of Georginio Rutter, Gelhardt has now been allowed to make a temporary switch in order to gain regular first-team football, but very much remains part of the club’s long-term plans."

Gelhardt trained with his Sunderland teammates for the first time on Friday morning and could make his debut against Millwall next weekend. He's cup-tied so won't feature at Fulham tomorrow.