Kazenga LuaLua joins Sunderland on a free transfer

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The former Brighton player was released after an unsuccessful loan to QPR earlier this season.

Kazenga LuaLua, 27, has joined Sunderland on a free transfer after being released by Brighton & Hove Albion, as confirmed by the BBC.

The DRC born winger becomes one of few players who have played for both Tyne-Wear clubs, having been at Newcastle United a youngster before joining Brighton.

Having joined the Seagulls in 2010, LuaLua went on to make 158 appearances for the south coast club, scoring 17 goals.

A cousin of Everton winger Yannick Bolasie, the 27-year-old endured an unsuccessful spell on loan at Loftus Road with QPR for the first half of the season and was eventually released by Brighton following his return.

Sunderland currently sit 22nd in the table, one place from safety on 25 points, with five wins, 10 draws and 13 losses so far this term.

Speaking to the club website manager Chris Coleman said: “Kaz was determined to come here and get playing first-team football again and I look forward to helping him play the kind of football he is capable of.

According to the BBC, LuaLua’s former boss Chris Hughton thanked the winger for his services to the club and spoke highly of his former player, saying: “He has worked tremendously hard during his time with us and has played a major part in the club’s history.”