Trindad and Tobago international Edwards, who starred for his country at last year's World Cup, has arrived at the north-east club from Championship rivals Luton in a 1.5 million pounds deal while Fulop joined in a 500,000 pounds move which saw 20-year-old Sunderland keeper Ben Alnwick go to Spurs.

Edwards joined Luton in 2005 from Wrexham and made 74 appearances, scoring eight goals and former Manchester United and Republic of Ireland captain Keane was in no doubt about his value to Sunderland, just three points off the play-offs as they bid to return to the Premier League at the first attempt.

We're absolutely delighted to have captured such a sought-after, top player," said Keane. "A lot of clubs have been interested in Carlos, so it's great that he will be here at Sunderland to play his part in getting this club back to the Premiership."

Defender Robbie Elliott left Sunderland after completing a move to Championship strugglers Leeds, while Liam Lawrence has moved to Stoke, three points ahead of Sunderland, in a deal worth an initial 500,000 pounds after eight games on loan at the Britannia Stadium.