Masuaku has signed a two-year deal on Wearside, becoming Sunderland’s 10th signing of the summer and bolstering a defence that will be further strengthened before the transfer deadline.
Masuaku, 31, has vast top level experience, having played more than 100 games for West Ham before leaving for Besiktas. He left the Turkish club at the end of last season and has joined Sunderland as a free agent.
Sunderland believe Masuaku has a “different profile” to their other full-back options, and the experienced defender’s arrival will allow Regis Le Bris to move Reinildo over to centre-half, if required.
Sunderland are still pushing hard to strengthen at centre-back ahead of next week’s opener, with the Black Cats in talks with Getafe over the signing of Paraguay international Omar Alderete.
The 28-year-old is expected to cost around £10m, though sources on Wearside claim talks aren’t quite as advanced as reports in Spain claim. Alderete is understood to be keen on the move.
Sunderland are also still in the market for one wide attacker, as they look to put the finishing touches to what has been a busy and productive summer window.
Explaining their latest signing, sporting director Speakman said: “Arthur’s a player with considerable Premier League experience and a different profile to enhance our squad.
“He’s a well-rounded full back who is strong in possession and not only impacts defensively, but also in the final third.
“He is eager to share his knowledge and experiences with the group, and this benefits the environment we are continuing to build.
“We are delighted to have secured him, and we will get to work immediately to integrate him into our squad, so he can make a positive impact as quickly as possible.”
Masuaku said: “I’m excited to be here and I’m also really happy to be back in the Premier League.
“It’s clear that Sunderland is a top Club and I’m grateful for the opportunity. I had three good years in Turkey, and now I have this exciting new challenge in front of me.
“I want to bring a winning mentality and joy to the fans, and I’m excited to get started.”
