At first, he was thought to have signed for Premiership whipping-boys Charlton but now the Wearside club have confirmed a deal has been completed.
Stokes: "It's brilliant to be here. It has been a hectic few days, sorting things out, and now I'm looking forward to training and playing.
"I spoke to Roy Keane about everything, he told me his hopes for the club and it helped make up my mind. I'm excited about the move to Sunderland."