Sunderland have confirmed the departure of Santiago Vergini to La Liga outfit Getafe on a year long loan deal.
Vergini joined the club back in January 2014 from Argentine side Estudiantes. What was initially a temporary stay, became permanent for around £2 million. The centre-half has gone on to feature in 51 matches in his 18 months on Wearside.
Comfortable at right-back, Vergini is perhaps best known for a calamitous own goal against Southampton. His spectacular volley sailed past a helpless Vito Mannone, on what was a terrible day for both player and club - Sunderland went on to lose the game a staggering 8-0.
Plenty of transfer dealings already done
The move comes with "a view to a permanent transfer", according to the Black Cats and it could be a good deal for both parties. Whilst Vergini has been solid, if unspectacular, Dick Advocaat seems set on rejuvenating a sorry Sunderland side after narrowly avoiding relegation last term.
Ricardo Alvarez's move was made permanent, due to a clause, along with Sebastian Coates making Sunderland his permanent home. Jeremain Lens' arrival earlier in the week was a huge boost for everyone surrounding the club; the Dutchman was reunited with his former coach for around £8m.
Celtic's Adam Matthews also joined for a reasonable fee, in what looks to be a very clever purchase. With the arrivals, sacrifices have also been made. El-Hadji Ba and Anthony Réveillère have departed, as Advocaat tries to get rid of as much deadwood as possible.
Another centre-back signing on the cards
They also seems that Younes Kaboul could be heading north, as Sky Sports reported that he had undergone a medical on Thursday. He would likely slot straight into the starting eleven, which is made easier with Vergini's departure.
He would bolster the current options at centre-back and compete with John O'Shea, Wes Brown and new signing Coates for a sport at the heart of Sunderland's defence.