Sunderland have swooped to sign Alim Ozturk, with the centre-back becoming Jack Ross’ first summer signing at the Stadium of Light. 

The Black Cats moved to secure Ozturk’s signature following his release from Turkish side Boluspor, with confirmation coming yesterday afternoon that he would be arriving in the North East on a two-year deal at the start of July.

Ross previously worked with Ozturk at Hearts, where the 25-year-old spent three years between 2014 and 2017.

During that time in Scotland, Ozturk made 70 appearances for Hearts, returning six goals across all competitions.

In Turkey last season, Ozturk made 21 appearances across all competitions for Boluspor.

The centre-back now takes the step back to the UK, but this time in England, with Ross securing his service.

Ross is currently looking to reshape his squad ahead of Sunderland’s return to League One, with the Black Cats preparing for life in the third-tier after suffering back-to-back relegations in the last two years.

Sunderland’s first game of the season will see them take on Charlton Athletic, which will be Ozturk’s opportunity to make his competitive debut for the Black Cats.

The Verdict 

There are going to be plenty of changes to Sunderland’s squad this summer, with Ross needing to get to work in the transfer window.

Ozturk is a player he know from his time in Scotland, which makes this deal less of a risk for Sunderland.

Ross bringing in players he can trust is going to be key to Sunderland’s success in the next 12 months.

This deal is a good start.

Sunderland fans… Let us know your thoughts!