Done deal: Grabban completes loan switch

Sunderland have completed the signing of Lewis Grabban on a season-long loan.

The striker arrives from AFC Bournemouth where he scored 36 goals during two spells at the Vitality Stadium.

Simon Grayson’s fifth summer signing has a wealth of Sky Bet Championship experience, while also representing the Cherries and Norwich City in the Premier League.

The 29-year-old spent the second half of last season on loan at Reading, scoring three goals in 15 appearances at the Madjeski Stadium.

And his performances helped the Royals reach the Sky Bet Championship play-off final – a match he started – as Jaap Stam’s side were beaten on penalties by Huddersfield Town.

Grabban started his career with his local side Crystal Palace, during which time he spent time on loan with Oldham Ahtletic and Motherwell.

Spells with Milwall, Brentford and Rotherham United followed before the striker moved to the Vitality Stadium and struck up a key partnership with Brett Pittman as the Cherries were promoted.

And he equally as important the following campaign, with 22 league goals helping Eddie Howe’s side to a top-half finish.

In June 2014 he signed for Norwich and immediately endeared himself to the Carrow Road faithful with the winner against bitter rivals Ipswich Town, as his goals once again contributed to promotion.

18 months ago the striker returned to Bournemouth before joining Reading on loan earlier this year.

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