Costel Pantilimon to Watford: Latest Transfer Details, Reaction and More

Watford completed the signing of giant goalkeeper Costel Pantilimon on Tuesday, with the 6'8" Romanian moving to the Hornets for an undisclosed fee.  

The club announced the capture of the former Sunderland star via Twitter:

According to Watford's official website, Pantilimon has signed a three-and-a-half-year deal with the Hornets. Sunderland confirmed the exit on their own website, thanking the player for his services: "Sunderland AFC would like to thank Costel and wish him the very best for the future at his new club."

The 28-year-old moved to Sunderland in 2014 and had been the Black Cats' regular man in goal until recently.

He enjoyed a productive first season at the Stadium of Light and was Sunderland's unquestioned starter heading into the 2015-16 season, but a handful of inconsistent showings and the club's poor form in the Premier League resulted in his demotion.

Manager Sam Allardyce initially gave the starting position to Vito Mannone but has also let promising youngster Jordan Pickford show what he can do, spelling the end of Pantilimon's time with the club.

According to WhoScored.com, Sunderland's defence certainly didn't make things easy for the Romania international during his time with the club:

Still just 28 years old, Pantilimon will hand Watford starter Heurelho Gomes some much-needed competition. The veteran has enjoyed a fine season with the newly promoted squad, but Gomes is 34 years old and may not be able to play at the highest level much longer.

At the very least, Pantilimon will be an excellent backup and possible replacement when Gomes starts to decline or calls it quits.

Follow @ReverschPass