CONFIRMED! Swedish forward Ola Toivonen joins Sunderland on a season-long loan

Sunderland have signed Swedish forward Ola Toivonen from Rennes on a season-long loan.

The 29-year-old is well known to Black Cats boss Dick Advocaat having played under the Dutchman during his time in charge of PSV Eindhoven.

Toivonen, who has scored nine goals in 43 games for Sweden, joins a side which has failed to win any of their opening three Premier League games and be could be thrown straight into Advocaat’s starting XI for Saturday's trip to Aston Villa.

"I worked with Ola at PSV, so I know him well,” said Advocaat.

“He is a national team player with a lot of experience, an attacking midfielder who can score goals and is good in the air - he will bring something different to the team."

Toivonen’s arrival could go some towards placating 67-year-old Advocaat, who has grown increasingly frustrated in recent weeks about the lack of signings.