The deal for the Zimbabwe striker was initially held up after emails and faxes from Sunderland to the Football Association did not go through.

The Premier League have investigated the technical problems and have been satisfied that Sunderland had tried to register the deal before yesterday's 5pm deadline.

A league spokesman said: "The Premier League confirms that everything was in order and deal done before the transfer window closed."

Sunderland boss Steve Bruce was delighted the deal has been ratified.

Bruce said: "He's a big, strong, powerful centre-forward and one we've been tracking for a long time. I'm delighted that we've been able to bring him to the club. He'll bring another dimension to our striking options and will be a great addition to the squad."