The 20-year-old right-back joined Sunderland’s academy at the age of nine but did not make a senior competitive appearance.
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Last season, Lavery gained valuable experience on loan with NIFL Premiership side Cliftonville before spending the second half of the campaign at National League club Halifax Town, where he featured nine times in all competitions.
"I know what the National League is like now. I know how to win games," Lavery told the Tynesiders' club website.
"I feel like I've got experience in the game from last year, so I 100% know what we need to do this year and I'll help the team as much as possible."