adminSunderland Step Up Summer Transfer Activity as Major Signings and Exits Loom
Sunderland are ramping up their transfer business this summer, with the Black Cats on the verge of breaking their transfer record for the second time in just a few weeks.
The club completed a £20 million move for Enzo Le Fee less than a month ago, following their Championship play-off triumph over Sheffield United, which triggered a clause in his loan deal from Roma. But that fee looks set to be eclipsed, as Sunderland have reportedly agreed a deal worth around £30 million for Strasbourg and Senegal midfielder Habib Diarra.
The 21-year-old is expected to undergo a medical soon ahead of a move to Wearside. The deal would represent a major statement of intent from Sunderland, especially considering the intense competition from several top European clubs for Diarra’s signature.
Diarra’s imminent arrival is part of a broader recruitment push. Sunderland have also been linked with Nice goalkeeper Marcin Bulka, Lorient forward Sambou Soumano, and Atletico Madrid left-back Reinildo Mandava, signalling a busy window as they prepare for their Premier League return.
The club’s first top-flight fixture since 2017 will see them face West Ham United, and while new additions are anticipated before then, some current players could be heading for the exit as Regis Le Bris shapes his squad for the challenges ahead.
Potential Departures
Nectarios Triantis
Triantis has sealed a permanent move to Hibernian after impressing during his loan spell in the Scottish Premiership. The Australian midfielder played a key role in helping Hibs secure third place and a return to European competition. Though Hibs are eager to retain him, other clubs may enter the race.
Milan Aleksic
The Serbian Under-21 international has made just nine appearances since arriving from Radnicki 1923 last summer. Reports suggest Partizan Belgrade are monitoring his situation. Should a suitable offer arrive, Sunderland may choose to cash in.
Joe Anderson
Having made only six senior appearances since signing in January 2023, Anderson appears likely to depart. With Premier League competition ahead, the former Everton defender doesn’t seem to be in Le Bris’ plans.
Nazariy Rusyn
The Ukrainian forward showed promise after his 2023 arrival but struggled for minutes and was loaned to Croatian side Hajduk Split. Another loan spell or a permanent exit could be on the cards this summer.
Timothee Pembele
Signed from Paris Saint-Germain last summer, Pembele sparked excitement but spent last season back on loan in France with Le Havre. With just eight appearances for Sunderland to his name, a return next season looks unlikely.
Jay Matete
(Information on Jay Matete was not provided in detail, but he is expected to be among those whose futures are uncertain.)
As Sunderland continue their recruitment drive, fans can expect more signings and several exits before the new Premier League season kicks off.
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