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“Shock Exit: Sunderland Star Set to Join European Club – Even If They Win Promotion
Sunderland Midfielder Set for Exit Ahead of Play-Off Clash with Coventry
As Sunderland gear up for their Championship play-off semi-final first leg against Coventry City on Friday, reports suggest that on-loan midfielder Salis Abdul Samed is set to leave the club once the season concludes.
The Black Cats have endured a disappointing end to the campaign, with manager Regis Le Bris struggling to rally the squad after securing fourth place with several weeks remaining.
A 1-0 loss to a managerless QPR side last weekend marked their fifth consecutive league defeat, casting doubt over their play-off momentum.
Le Bris, who took over last summer following Lorient’s relegation from Ligue 1, brought Abdul Samed in on loan from RC Lens.
But the Ghanaian international’s season has been marred by injuries and inconsistent performances, limiting him to just ten Championship appearances.
Sonderjyske Open Talks with Abdul Samed’s Camp
According to Anna Granville, speaking to Africa Foot, Danish Superliga side Sonderjyske have begun negotiations with Abdul Samed’s representatives about a potential summer transfer.
Sonderjyske, who look set to secure survival in Denmark’s top tier after gaining promotion last season, are keen to offer the 25-year-old more regular game time.
Granville, part of Supernova Management – the agency representing Abdul Samed – emphasized that consistent minutes are a top priority for the midfielder:
“Sonderjyske made official contact late last week to clarify Salis’ situation. They seem eager to push for an agreement with Lens. From our side, it’s essential Salis gets more playing time, and we’ll work toward that.”
Abdul Samed’s Career in Brief
Abdul Samed initially joined Clermont on loan from the JMG Academy in 2019 before signing permanently in 2021.
He impressed in Ligue 1, earning a move to Lens in 2022, where he was pivotal in their second-place finish in the 2022/23 season.
His reduced role under new management, however, paved the way for a move to Sunderland last summer – a deal initially seen as a coup.
Major Summer Overhaul Expected at Sunderland
Whether Sunderland secure promotion or not, a busy summer of squad changes is anticipated. Abdul Samed is just one of several players expected to move on.
Promising winger Tommy Watson is set to join Brighton, while young talents like Dan Neil and Chris Rigg have attracted interest.
Jobe Bellingham has also been linked with Manchester United and Real Madrid, and full-backs Trai Hume and Dennis Cirkin are reportedly on Wolves’ radar.
Sunderland face Coventry at the CBS Arena this week before the second leg at the Stadium of Light next Tuesday. The winner will meet either Sheffield United or Bristol City in the Championship play-off final at Wembley.
