Sunderland confirm Halford signing

Sunderland boss Roy Keane finally launched his summer recruitment drive on Monday afternoon when he paid Reading £3million for full-back Greg Halford.

The 22-year-old defender - who joined Reading from Colchester in January - signed a four-year deal after passing a medical on Wearside as the Black Cats' hard work behind the scenes finally paid off.

Keane said: "I am delighted Greg has decided to join us and hopefully he will play a big part in what we hope will be a successful few years for the club."

Chelmsford-born Halford, who managed just three senior appearances for the Royals, was thrilled to be presented with a chance to establish himself in the Barclays Premiership.

He said: "It's great to be here. The set-up at Sunderland is phenomenal and I cannot wait to get going. I have had a taste of the Premiership with Reading and I want more."

The 6ft 4in right-back joined Colchester as a trainee and played a part in the club's promotion to the Coca-Cola Championship in 2006.

His form at Layer Road won him a £2.5million move to Reading during the winter transfer window.

However, with skipper Graeme Murty first-choice in his position, his chances were limited and he had to make do with two starts and one appearance as a substitute as the club's excellent first Premiership campaign drew to a close.

Sunderland's offer was accepted as manager Steve Coppell handed Ecuador defender Ulises de la Cruz a new 12-month deal.

Keane has been linked with a bewildering list of players since his side surged to the Coca-Cola Championship title last season with chairman Niall Quinn's Drumaville consortium having provided him with around £25million to build a squad capable not only of surviving in the top flight, but of making an impact.