Kristjaan Speakman outlines Jocelin Ta Bi plan after Sunderland signing | OneFootball

Sunderland have completed their first signing of the January window, bringing in winger Jocelin Ta Bi on a long-term contract. Sporting director Kristjaan Speakman said the 20-year-old will be integrated patiently.

The club said he will not be available to face Crystal Palace at the Stadium of Light on Saturday. According to Sunderland Echo, the deal is worth around £3.5 million and Ta Bi had been close to joining Celtic before Sunderland moved.

Speakman described Ta Bi as a dynamic, explosive right winger who enjoys attacking duels.

Although signed from Maccabi Netanya, the Ivory Coast youngster has spent the last 18 months on loan at Hapoel Petah Tikva. He helped them win promotion to the Israeli top flight last season, and has two goals and two assists this campaign.

Ta Bi said joining a Premier League club fulfils a long-held dream. He spoke of excitement for the challenge, a commitment to daily improvement, and said Sunderland have special things ahead.

He has signed a four-and-a-half year contract, with an option for a further year.

Source: Sunderland Echo