Alim Ozturk has spoken of his pride in penning a two-year contract at Sunderland this evening.
The 25-year-old has today become Jack Ross’ first signing as manager of the Black Cats and will officially join the club on July 1.
Ozturk is a familiar face to Ross, having previously worked with the towering defender at Scottish Championship club Heart of Midlothian.
During the duos time with the Jam Tarts, Ozturk captained them to the Scottish Championship title during the 2014-15 campaign.
A spell in Turkey with Boluspor followed for Ozturk, who has previously represented Turkey at under-21 level, before signing at the Stadium of Light to become the club’s first signing of the summer.
Speaking to safc.com, Ozturk shared his excitement to get started while offering an insight into his playing style.
“I am delighted that I can play for a club like this,” he said.
“It is a great honour for me and I can’t wait to get started. When I heard about it, it went very quick.
“I want to be part of the club’s history and I hope we can achieve our goals this season, that is the main thing.
“I am a centre-back who likes to play from the ground. I don’t like to play long balls but I will do if I have to.
He continued: “My experience at Hearts will help me because it is a little bit of the same style in League One.
“Everyone knows England is the place to be and to play football. The stadiums are always full and the people love football here.
“I am still a young player. I am only 25 but I have a lot of experience. I have played for the title in my last two years so it is a challenge for me to come here.
“I want to be here and I want to try and replicate what I did at Hearts.”