Albion have completed the capture of Sunderland goalkeeper Jason Steele.

The 27-year-old has joined the Seagulls on a free transfer and signed a three-year contract.

Steele, bought by Sunderland from Blackburn a year ago for £500,000, will provide back-up and cover for No.1 Mathew Ryan, as Niki Maenpaa is leaving, Tim Krul is likely to follow suit and Christian Walton is lined up to rejoin Wigan on loan.

Boss Chris Hughton said: "We're delighted to secure the services of Jason - a goalkeeper that brings a wealth of experience, having played almost 300 games at senior level.

"Mat Ryan performed exceptionally well for us in the Premier League last season and Jason's arrival will, following Niki Maenpaa's departure, restore the options we have in this position.

"Jason will work with Ben Roberts and our other goalkeepers, and I'm looking forward to welcoming him to the squad when we return for pre-season training."

Albion remain in the market for another goalkeeper to restore Hughton's options between the posts to three.

Steele, who has considerable Championship experience with Sunderland, Blackburn and Middlesbrough as well as representing England at under-21 level, will compete with the other newcomer to play in the Premier League in January, when Ryan heads off with Australia to the Asian Cup in the United Arab Emirates.