Sunderland sign Yann M’Vila on loan but Leroy Fer fails medical

Sunderland, 2/1 Premier League relegation fourth-favourites with Coral, have completed the season-long loan capture of French defensive midfielder Yann M’Vila on loan from Russian outfit Rubin Kazan.

Netherlands engine room operator Leroy Fer will not be joining M’Vila at the Stadium of Light, however, as he failed a medical on Wearside, and could thus remain at QPR. The Dutchman has endured Premier League relegation in successive seasons, first with Norwich City and then the Hoops.

M’Vila, 25, becomes the Black Cats’ fifth summer signing following the arrivals of defensive trio Sebastian Coates, Younes Kaboul and Adam Matthews, plus forward option Jeremain Lens.

BREAKING NEWS: #SAFC have completed the loan signing of France international Yann M’Vila. @yannmvilafr pic.twitter.com/FitWgsoWAy

— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) August 6, 2015

“Yann is a player who is highly regarded by a number of the elite clubs across Europe, playing for his national team of France from a young age,” Sunderland sporting director Lee Congerton said. “The Premier League presents a fresh challenge for him, its one I know he is relishing and we are delighted to welcome him to the club.”

“I’m very happy to be a Sunderland player,” added M’Vila. “I had a very good feeling training with the team; every player welcomed me and the feeling was very good with them so I’m excited for the start of the season. I’ve also wanted to play in the Barclays Premier League for a long time so I’m very happy to be here.”

M’Vila, who began his senior club career with Rennes, spent time on loan at Inter Milan last term, but failed to impress Nerazzurri head coach Roberto Mancini as the Serie A heavyweights finished in mid-table. He has 22 caps for his country, but is out of favour at international after off-field breaches of discipline.

Dick Advocaat is 5/1 to steer the Black Cats to a top 10 finish.