Sunderland have signed defender Daniel Ballard on a three-year deal from Premier League side Arsenal for an undisclosed fee.
Ballard, who did not make a senior appearance for the Gunners, joins with a further year's option on his deal.
The 22-year-old has previously spent time on loan with Swindon, Blackpool and Millwall in the past three seasons.
"It feels amazing to be here and I'm extremely happy," he told Sunderland's official website.
"The fanbase and size of this football club speaks for itself and having been up here to have a look around, it feels like an exciting place to be.