Sunderland have reportedly agreed a deal to sign Maritimo defender Valentin Roberge at the end of the season.
The 25-year-old Frenchman is due to join the Black Cats on a free transfer once his contract expires at the end of the current campaign.
The centre-back will be new manager Paolo Di Canio's first signing for the Premier League club, according to Goal.com.
Roberge joined Maritimo from Greek side Aris in 2010 after moving from France in 2008.