Sunderland keeper Vito Mannone signs new two-year deal

The Echo revealed last month that Sunderland had opened talks over a new deal for Mannone, with only 12 months remaining on his existing contract.

The two parties have been able to swiftly reach a resolution, with Mannone penning fresh terms that sees him contracted to Sunderland until the summer of 2018.

The new deal caps a remarkable turnaround in the Italian’s fortunes after he had looked likely to leave the club in January, following a frustrating 13-month spell as back-up to Costel Pantilimon.

Mannone was given a second chance by Sam Allardyce and the 28-year-old seized his opportunity to return to the form which saw him crowned Player of the Year in 2013-14.

The ex-Arsenal man is in pole position to start next season as Sunderland number one, although he will face a fierce challenge for his place from England Under-21 keeper Jordan Pickford.

Mannone follows Patrick van Aanholt and Jermain Defoe in penning a new contract at Sunderland this summer.

And he is not likely to be the last, with Sunderland eager to tie down Jan Kirchhoff after he only signed an 18-month deal when he arrived at the Stadium of Light in January.