Sunderland's new signing Arbenit Xhemajli has spoken for the first time since his arrival at the Stadium of Light.

Chronicle Live were among the first to report that Sunderland were showing interest in the Kosovo international and it has now been confirmed via the club's official website that a deal has been completed.

The 22-year-old has penned a two-year deal at the Stadium of Light after spending time with the club during pre-season, featuring in the 3-1 win over Gateshead.

Xhemajli becomes Black Cats manager Phil Parkinson's fifth signing of the summer, arriving after a six-figure compensation package was agreed with his former club Neuchatel Xamax.

Following his move to Wearside, Xhemajli said: “It feels great to get the deal done. I’m really happy to be here and I can’t wait to get started. I had some positive talks with the manager and from what I have seen, I believe we will have a successful season.”

The left-footed defender made his senior debut in 2017 and has since gone on to clock up more than 50 career appearances in Switzerland.

Xhemajli will not be eligible to feature in today's Carabao Cup tie against Hull City but can make his Sunderland debut Bristol Rovers in League One next Saturday.

Xhemajli's signing is a gamble from Phil Parkinson, especially given that the defender does not have any experience of English football.

He may need some time to settle in to the hustle and bustle of League One but, should he perform to the ability that convinced the Black Cats to sign him, then Parkinson may have captured a real gem.

Do you think Xhemajli is going to be a good signing for Sunderland? Let us know your views in the comments section below...