Davis had a torrid time in the Sunderland goal last season, conceding that freak goal to Matty Taylor of south coast minnows Portsmouth and spending most of the season picking the ball out of the net behind the only leakier defence in the league than Portsmouth's.
He also showed signs of the form that made him Championship keeper of the season for Ipswich including a memorable performance in the 0-0 draw with Man Utd. It is that Ipswich form that has persuaded Saints to fork out a potential £1.25m, £800k up front with the rest based on appearances.
The move is good business for all parties. Davis clearly wants to put last season behind him and join a team on the up. The transfer matches the £1.25 Sunderland paid to Ipswich and Saints now have decent options in goal.
Davis, 29, has enjoyed a somewhat nomadic career to date having notched up appearances for Luton, Torquay, Hartlepool, Milton Keynes, Ipswich and of course Sunderland. He will wear the Saints number 1 shirt.
Welcome to the club, Kelvin.