LONDON, July 2 (Xinhua) -- Newly promoted Sunderland has spent a club record 30 million pounds (41 million U.S. dollars) to sign Senegal midfielder Habib Diarra from French club Strasbourg as it prepares for life in the Premier League.

Diarra moves to the northeast of England to help replace Jobe Bellingham, who joined Borussia Dortmund at the end of last season.

The 21-year-old has agreed a five-year contract with Sunderland after making 31 appearances for Strasbourg last season, as the club, which is coached by Liam Rosenior finished seventh in Ligue 1 and qualified to play in Europe for just the second time in 20 years.

"I'm happy and excited to become a Black Cat (Sunderland's nickname) and I can't wait to discover the Stadium of Light and its fans," said Diarra on the club website.

"Everyone saw last season's success and I guarantee that I'll give everything for this team and fight for these colors in the Premier League. I'm ready for this challenge and I can't wait to get started," he added.

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