Crystal Palace have announced the signing of former Sunderland goalkeeper Remi Matthews on a free transfer.

What's the story?

Chairman Steve Parish confirmed the signing, saying: “Remi brings plenty of Football League experience with him, and we are really pleased to add him to our goalkeeping ranks, where he will continue to develop under the tutelage of Dean Kiely, alongside Vicente Guaita and Jack Butland.”

Remi told Palace TV: “I can’t wait to get started. I'm excited to work with Dean Kiely again because he helps me improve, and I’ve got two great goalkeepers to look up to in Vicente Guaita and Jack Butland. It’s great to be a part of it, and I’m really looking forward to it.”

Fans will be buzzing

The Eagles were in the market for another shot-stopper this summer after seeing Wayne Hennessey depart following a seven-year spell at the club.

Although Matthews might not seem the most glamourous or exciting arrival, news that the Palace hierarchy are making moves in the transfer market will surely have the supporters buzzing.

New manager Patrick Vieira will need to be backed over the coming months if he's to achieve success next season, and the arrival of former Reading ace Michael Olise and Matthews is a solid start to their business.

Matthews made 14 appearances in all competitions for Sunderland last term, managing three clean sheets, and he will be tasked with providing cover and competition for Jack Butland and Vicente Guaita.

Adding some strength in depth will be crucial for Vieira this summer after several first team regulars departed the club following the expiration of their contracts, and the English goalkeeper's arrival has gone some way towards that mission.

Roy Hodgson brought consistency and stability to Selhurst Park over his four-year reign, but Vieira faces a very tough task in taking Palace to the next level.

Bringing in Matthews on a free transfer frees up funds elsewhere in the squad and allows the former Nice manager to focus his resources on other acquisitions.

Intriguing prospects such as Kasper Dolberg, Eddie Nketiah and Victor Nelsson have reportedly caught the eye of the Palace hierarchy, and Eagles fans will surely hope that such quality players will soon be following in the footsteps of Matthews and coming to Selhurst Park.

In other news... Imagine him and Olise: Parish could form a dream duo with Palace swoop for 16-goal gem