Championship

The £30m Statement: Why Sunderland Are All In on Habib Diarra – and What It Spells for Le Bris’ Tactics

June 29, 2025 RAYMOND 0

Habib Diarra’s imminent £30 million move to Sunderland marks a bold statement of intent from the newly-promoted Premier League side. Set to become the club’s most expensive signing, Diarra is expected to replace Jobe Bellingham in midfield—but the data suggests this isn’t just a like-for-like swap. The 20-year-old Senegalese international not only outperformed Bellingham in goals, assists, and key creative metrics last season, but he also did so in a tougher league against stronger opposition. With superior attacking output and a dynamic presence in the final third, Diarra’s arrival signals a shift in Sunderland’s midfield identity under Régis Le Bris—one that could reshape their approach entirely in the top flight.

Sunderland on High Alert as Vladyslav Vanat Transfer Hits Shock Twist Over ‘Absurd’ Price Demand

June 26, 2025 RAYMOND 0

Sunderland’s hopes of signing Dynamo Kyiv striker Vladyslav Vanat have been thrown into doubt, despite being the only club to make formal contact with the Ukrainian side. While reports initially suggested a rising price tag, journalist Mikhail Spivakovsky dismissed claims of an inflated fee as “absurd,” insisting the €20m release clause remains intact. However, he also questioned whether a move to Wearside was realistic, casting doubt over the Black Cats’ pursuit. Meanwhile, sporting director Kristjaan Speakman reaffirmed Sunderland’s commitment to long-term Premier League stability, emphasizing their strategic recruitment efforts.