It’s hard to fault Sunderland given their near-perfect start to the season. After a 3-1 victory over Portsmouth at Fratton Park, the Black Cats have secured four wins from four games, scoring ten goals and conceding just one.
Despite some positive moves in the summer transfer window, there were a few contentious points that divided fans.
The departure of Sunderland’s standout player, Jack Clarke, to Premier League side Ipswich Town for £15 million plus £5 million in add-ons raised eyebrows, especially given that the club didn’t sign a prolific striker. While neither situation is catastrophic, the specifics of each have sparked debate.
Clarke, Sunderland’s player of the year who netted 15 goals and provided four assists from the left wing, was expected to leave after a disappointing end to the 2023/24 Championship season. Although Clarke remained with Sunderland for the start of the season and made an impressive impact with a goal and assist in the first two games, Ipswich eventually secured him with a five-year contract.
The reported fee of £15 million plus add-ons, as reported by BBC Sport, caused some discontent among Sunderland fans. Comparatively, Leeds United’s departures commanded higher fees, with Crysencio Summerville moving to West Ham United for £25 million plus add-ons and Georginio Rutter to Brighton and Hove Albion for £40 million, according to BBC Sport. Given Clarke’s performance, fans questioned why Sunderland didn’t push for a higher fee.
On a positive note, Sunderland included a 15% sell-on clause in Clarke’s deal, meaning they could benefit financially if he moves from Ipswich in the future. While this is reassuring, the lower fee still leaves some fans disgruntled.
In addition to Clarke’s departure, Sunderland’s failure to sign a prolific striker during the summer transfer window was another issue. Despite a dramatic search, including interest in Alexandre Mendy and other targets, Sunderland ended up signing Wilson Isidor and Ahmed Abdullahi. Isidor had a decent record at Zenit St Petersburg, while Abdullahi’s impressive numbers came from Belgium’s third tier. Mendy, a key target, was not secured due to complications.
Eliezer Mayenda’s strong performances so far have alleviated some concerns, and if he continues his good form, the Sunderland hierarchy may feel vindicated in their transfer strategy. Only time will tell if more significant deals might have been beneficial.
While Sunderland’s unbeaten run suggests no major regrets from the summer window, the Clarke deal remains a sore point, especially when compared to other player sales. If Mayenda continues to excel, he may prove to be the solution to Sunderland’s striking needs.
