Leeds striker Joe Gelhardt joins Sunderland on loan transfer to boost Black Cats' Premier League promotion bid

SUNDERLAND have completed the signing of Leeds hitman Joe Gelhardt.

Black Cats boss Tony Mowbray has been scouring the market for reinforcements to boost their chances of promotion to the Premier League.

And he's boosted his side's firepower with a loan deal for White's hitman Gelhardt, who will remain at the Stadium of Light until the end of the season.

An excerpt of a club statement read: "Sunderland AFC has completed the loan signing of Joe Gelhardt from Leeds United.

"The forward moves to the Stadium of Light until the end of the 2022-23 season, joining from the Whites after making 15 Premier League appearances for Jesse Marsch’s side during the first part of the campaign."

Gelhardt is relishing the challenge of firing the Black Cats back to the big time after a six-year absence.

The 20-year-old said: "I know how big the Club is and I’m really looking forward to meeting the lads and trying to help.

"I spoke with the Head Coach and the playing style seemed a perfect fit for me.

"I’ve watched Sunderland on the TV this season and seen some positive, attacking football and I can’t wait to get involved.”

Mowbray said of the striker: “It is no secret that Joe had plenty of options on the table this month.

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"So it is a testament to the club and its staff that he felt Sunderland was the best move for him.

"He has made an impact at Premier League level throughout the past 18 months and he is a really exciting signing.

"Who fits our playing style and will complement a forward line that is already packed with talent.

"I’m sure the fans can’t wait to see him in action and we are looking forward to supporting his development.”

Gelhardt could make his Sunderland debut a week on Saturday when the Black Cats travel to The Den to take on Millwall.