Done Deal: Watford complete signing of Costel Pantilimon from Sunderland

The Echo broke the news on Monday night that the giant Romanian was being tracked by the Hornets, with interest from Spanish side Espanyol too.

And Watford have today confirmed they have secured his signature, with Pantilimon joining for an undisclosed fee.

The Romanian international moved to Sunderland in July 2014 from Manchester City.

He made 49 appearances for the Black Cats during his time at the club.

A club statment read: “Sunderland AFC would like to thank Costel and wish him the very best for the future at his new club.”

Pantilimon had fallen downt he pecking order at the Stadium of Light after the return to the club of Jordan Pickford.