Watford signs goalkeeper Pantilimon from Sunderland

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Watford has announced the signing of goalkeeper Costel Pantilimon on a permanent transfer from Sunderland.

(Courtesy: WatfordFC)

The deal with the Hornets takes Pantilimon through June 2019.

The 28-year-old Romanian recently lost his place as Sunderland's starter to Vito Mannone. That, coupled with the return of 21-year-old Jordan Pickford from his loan spell at Preston North End, eliminated the side's need for Pantilimon.

He featured 49 times for the Black Cats after spending three years as a backup to Joe Hart at Manchester City.

Pantilimon will likely continue as the second-choice goalkeeper at Watford, where starter Heurelho Gomes has started all 22 Premier League matches thus far.