SUNDERLAND have strengthened their frontline with the capture of highly-rated Chelsea striker Mason Burstow.

The 20-year-old, who has come off the bench twice for Chelsea in the Premier League this season, joins on a season-long loan.

Burstow joined Chelsea from Charlton Athletic in January last year and has impressed coaches at Stamford Bridge. He was wanted by Blackburn Rovers this summer, while reports emerged this week claiming AC Milan had identified the forward as a target.

But Sunderland have won the race for the striker, in what is a huge boost for the Black Cats and boss Tony Mowbray.

Burstow said:  “I’m buzzing to be here – it’s a huge club with a great head coach and big expectations. I’m here to bring goals to the team and keep supporters on the edge of their seats. I can’t wait to walk out at the Stadium of Light for the first time after the international break.”

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Sunderland's sporting director Kristjaan Speakman said: “Mason is one of the brightest young centre forwards on the cusp of the Premier League environment and he is a player that we have monitored for some time.

"The moment that he became available, we did everything within our power to ensure we were his preferred destination and after fielding multiple offers from the UK and overseas, we are delighted that he has chosen Sunderland.

"Mason is a mobile number nine with experience in the EFL and he has had a really positive impact on Chelsea’s first-team squad this summer, so we are excited to see the impact he can make in our team.”

Burstow could be followed through the door at Sunderland by Nazariy Rusyn, with the Black Cats still working on finalising the signing of the Ukrainian striker.

And, despite reports suggesting otherwise, Ross Stewart is still expected to join Southampton ahead of tonight's deadline.