As Sunderland prepare for their long-awaited return to the Premier League, speculation is building over the moves they might make in what promises to be an eventful transfer window. While not every detail is certain, current discussions, market trends, and internal planning offer a glimpse into what fans might expect. This breakdown offers a forecast – grounded in credible information – of how Sunderland’s summer business could take shape.
Goalkeeper Situation – Competition Incoming
Anthony Patterson is expected to retain his role as Sunderland’s first-choice goalkeeper, but the club is keen to introduce stiffer competition for the spot. Marcin Bulka remains their priority signing, although interest from Saudi outfit Neom may complicate matters if financial offers sway the Polish stopper. Regardless of Bulka’s decision, Sunderland appear intent on adding a new No.1-calibre player. Meanwhile, Nathan Bishop and Blondy Nna Noukeu are likely to move on. Simon Moore could continue as a seasoned third-choice option, offering experience behind the younger keepers. Academy prospects Matty Young and Adam Richardson are likely to go out on loan, with Dan Cameron also expected to leave temporarily for further development.
Defensive Reshuffle – Reinforcements and Exits
Sunderland’s core defensive unit – including Trai Hume, Dan Ballard, Luke O’Nien, Dennis Cirkin (who may sign a new deal), and Aji Alese – looks set to stay intact. The arrival of Reinildo Mandava will inject vital top-level experience at left-back, effectively ending interest in Harry Toffolo. Joe Anderson seems destined for a permanent exit, while Jenson Seelt, Leo Hjelde, and Zak Johnson are candidates for loan spells. Sunderland remain in the market for another centre-half, with Charlie Cresswell emerging as a more feasible option than the injury-prone and costly Joe Gomez. Niall Huggins may stay put during rehabilitation but could leave later in the window. Timothée Pembélé is also tipped for a potential departure.
Midfield Makeover – New Core Taking Shape
Habib Diarra’s club-record £30million signing is nearly finalised and he is expected to form a new midfield trio alongside Dan Neil – who may extend his contract – and Enzo Le Fée. Although initial links to Jordan Henderson have cooled, further midfield signings remain a strong possibility. Youngster Chris Rigg is set to stay and could play an important role. Departures are anticipated for Jay Matete and Pierre Ekwah, with Milan Aleksic heading out on loan. Nectar Triantis may also exit, though whether it’s a temporary or permanent move remains unclear. Alan Browne adds valuable experience but may see limited minutes in the top flight, especially if more midfielders arrive. Harrison Jones is also being considered for a development loan to gain playing time.
Attacking Options – Outgoings and Key Targets
Patrick Roberts is expected to remain and contribute, while several wide players – Ian Poveda, Adil Aouchiche, and Abdoullah Ba – are likely to be offloaded. With strong French links, Sunderland are seriously considering a £17million move for Armand Laurienté, who can play both as a winger and forward. At the moment, he appears a more probable signing than Vladyslav Vanat. Eliezer Mayenda, Wilson Isidor, and Romaine Mundle are expected to stay and fight for minutes. Conversely, Luís Semedo and Nazariy Rusyn are likely to be sold. Prospects Ahmed Abdullahi and Trey Ogunuyi will either be part of the U21 setup or sent out on loan. Sunderland are also exploring a loan deal with a £12million obligation to buy Real Madrid’s Gonzalo Garcia. Should that fall through, the club will shift focus to another young striker with a similar profile. Despite his experience, a move for Jamie Vardy appears highly unlikely at this stage.
Closing Thoughts – A Window Built on Strategy and Value
Sunderland’s approach this summer centres on creating a balanced squad – one capable of competing in the Premier League while also increasing in value. Owner Kyril Louis-Dreyfus, alongside new sporting director Florent Ghisolfi, is following a model that blends youthful potential with select experience. The signings of Diarra, Le Fée, Laurienté, and Garcia represent high-upside investments, while players like Reinildo add leadership and structure. A new high-level goalkeeper would complete the team’s spine. Factoring in anticipated outgoings, the club could see up to 15 departures and around 10 new signings. By the time the window closes, Sunderland could boast a leaner, more talented squad – and more crucially, a clear, coherent strategy to tackle life back in the top tier.
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