The centre midfielder, 28, has signed a three-year deal on Wearside after completing his medical today, and becomes the first Finnish player to sign for the club.

Boss Roy Keane said: "I'm delighted to sign a player of Teemu's experience and quality, he'll be a valuable addition to our squad.

"Teemu has showed versatility, playing in different midfield positions for both Tottenham and his previous club Auxerre.

"But his experience, in particular, and the fact he has played more than 40 international games shows he has a lot to offer Sunderland."

Tainio joined Spurs from Auxerre in July 2005 and was one of the finds of the season, making 25 appearances in his first Premier League campaign.

The Finland international, who is capable of playing anywhere across the midfield, began his career at TP-47 and then FC Haka in his homeland, debuting in 1996, before turning down a host of European clubs to join Auxerre in 1997.

Tainio made 150 appearances for the French club, helping them into the Champions League in 2002 and lifting the French Cup in 2003. He was also part of Auxerre's run to the quarter-finals of the 2004-05 UEFA Cup.

A combative midfielder, Tainio made 83 league and cup appearances in three seasons at White Hart Lane.