Adam Johnson moves to Sunderland from Manchester City (original) (raw)

Sunderland have signed England winger Adam Johnson on a four-year deal from Manchester City for an undisclosed fee.

Liverpool and Tottenham were believed to be interested in the 25-year-old, who made 26 Premier League appearances in City's title-winning campaign.

"Adding quality players to the squad has been our main aim this summer and Adam certainly fits that bill," said Black Cats manager Martin O'Neill.

Johnson's move follows Sunderland's signing of Steven Fletcher from Wolves.

The transfer will mean a return to the North East for Johnson, who came through the youth ranks at Middlesbrough.

"He has terrific ability, great delivery and I'm sure he is a player who will excite our fans," said O'Neill.

"I couldn't be more delighted to have him at the football club."

Johnson has 11 England caps, scoring two goals, and started for Roy Hodgson's side in the recent friendly victory over Italy.

He scored 15 goals in 97 games for City but 43 of those appearances came as a substitute as he struggled to hold down a place in Roberto Mancini's side.