Sunderland signs defender Lamine Kone from Lorient

To see a list of completed deals in the January window thus far, visit theScore's Premier League transfer tracker.

Sunderland announced the signing of defender Lamine Kone from Ligue 1 side Lorient on Wednesday after failing in its first bid for the 26-year-old Ivorian.

The terms of the deal weren't disclosed, but Lorient vice-president Alex Hayes said Sunderland returned with an offer his club "couldn't refuse."

(Courtesy: Sunderland AFC)

Kone's initial deal with Sunderland, thought to be worth £5 million, broke down in the beginning of January. Despite spending nine days in England's north-east, Kone couldn't put pen to paper on a five-year contract.

Lorient threatened to take legal action against the Black Cats, as Kone flew back to France.

But the Premier League struggler renewed interest in the Paris-born centre-back two weeks ago, and its second attempt went without a hitch.

"Strengthening our defensive options was a priority for us, and Lamine is a player that has impressed me when I’ve seen him play," manager Sam Allardyce said. "He is big and strong, attributes you need to play in central defence in the Premier League, and his arrival will give us healthy competition for places in a key position."

Kone is now tied to the Stadium of Light until 2020.