Sunderland have agreed a deal with Birmingham City for midfielder Jobe Bellingham.
The 17-year-old had a year left on his deal with the Blues but will move for £3 million.
He made his debut for Birmingham in January last year. Bellingham has featured in 22 games this season, starting five.
The Black Cats have been chasing Bellingham for some time now. He was a guest at the Stadium of Light for their Championship play-off game against Luton Town a few weeks ago.
Sunderland first-team coach Mike Dodds is reportedly close with the Bellingham family and believes he can improve.
Sunderland sporting director Kristjaan Speakman knows Jobe and his brother Jude from his time at Birmingham.
Bellingham said via (SAFC’s website): “I’m delighted to sign for Sunderland AFC, and I can’t wait to get started.
“The opportunity for young players to move here and progress is clear, so I believe this is the perfect Club for me to continue my development.
“I’m grateful to everyone at Birmingham City for their support over the past 11 years, and I wish them the best for the future as I begin the next chapter of my career at the Stadium of Light.”
Jude Bellingham also completed his move to Real Madrid today. Los Blancos have paid €103 million and will pay more bonuses to Borussia Dortmund.
The 19-year-old joins the 14-time Champions League winners after a stellar campaign for BVB that saw him win the Bundesliga Player of the Season award.
He established himself as a leader, captaining the Bundesliga side in the league and Europe while notching 24 goal contributions in all competitions.
