Sunderland have made Enzo Le Fee's loan move from Roma permanent after sealing their long-awaited return to the Premier League.

The Black Cats launched a fightback to beat Sheffield United 2-1 in last month's Championship play-off final at Wembley Stadium, returning to the big time eight years on from their last relegation from the top flight.

Creative midfielder Le Fee played a key role in their promotion campaign, making 18 appearances after arriving on an initial six-month loan in January.

Le Fee scored one goal and contributed four assists for Regis Le Bris' side, also creating 28 chances.

Only Trai Hume and Patrick Roberts (both 34) created more for Sunderland after the turn of the year.

After penning a four-year contract, Le Fee told Sunderland's website, "I said before the play-off final that my heart was in Sunderland. 

"I wanted to stay, and this made it the most important game of my life. Together, we did it. From the moment I arrived, I have enjoyed my football, my team-mates, and our supporters. 

"We shared an incredible experience, and now we get to take the next step. There are greater challenges ahead, but we must face them together, and I can't wait to play for Sunderland in the Premier League."