Get the latest SAFC transfer news straight to your inbox by signing up to our FREE newsletter Subscribe Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

Phil Bardsley has called time on his Sunderland career and signed for Stoke.

Bardsley has turned down the Black Cats’ offer of a contract and joined the Potters on a long-term deal after months of wrangling over a new deal.

It is understood that Sunderland were informed this afternoon and the defender has agreed to join Mark Hughes’ side this afternoon as he seeks a “fresh challenge”.

Bardsley was one of the longest serving players at the Stadium of Light, having joined in 2008. He won a player-of-the-year award but appeared to be on the verge of leaving Sunderland last summer after Paolo Di Canio froze the Scotland international out of the first team picture.

He won his place back in the team and Sunderland wanted him to stay but he has opted to go to the Britannia.