“0-goal in 24”- Sunderland make the right call with £8m flop after his ‘historically and shockingly’ bad season
Sunderland’s Transfer Window Could Define Their Premier League Future
A strong summer in the transfer market could be crucial for Sunderland, potentially determining whether they secure an immediate return to the Championship or firmly establish themselves among the Premier League’s elite.
This week, Enzo Le Fee’s loan move from Roma was made permanent. At £20 million, the fan-favourite French midfielder has finally surpassed Didier Ndong’s near decade-long record as Sunderland’s most expensive signing.
But after waiting nine years for a new record signing, Sunderland might see two big arrivals before the summer ends.
The Black Cats are reportedly eyeing Liverpool defender Joe Gomez, valued around £25 million, while Monaco’s Wilfried Singo is also on their radar. Thanks to their play-off final victory over Sheffield United, Sunderland now have access to a higher tier of more costly transfer targets. However, manager Regis Le Bris seems unlikely to revisit certain targets from earlier in the year.
According to TalkSPORT, former Leicester City and Everton winger Demarai Gray would prefer to return to Premier League football if he leaves Saudi Arabia this summer. Despite this, Sunderland appear in no rush to reignite their interest in the 28-year-old forward.
TalkSPORT also reports that Sunderland have yet to renew their pursuit of Gray, while Give Me Sport suggests Championship side Birmingham City could be the more likely destination for the player, who began his career at St Andrews.
Though Al-Ettifaq’s management have praised Gray’s attitude and sharpness, his poor goal and assist record last season likely explains Sunderland’s hesitation. Gray’s return of zero goals and assists in 24 Saudi Pro League appearances was described by EttiVoice on X as “historically and shockingly negative.” In fact, Gray is reportedly the first foreign player in Al-Ettifaq’s 80-year history to log over 1,500 minutes without a single goal contribution in league play.
Meanwhile, Sunderland have been linked with Jamie Vardy, the 38-year-old Leicester City legend, while Arsenal great Perry Groves has suggested targeting Michael Keane when his Everton contract expires.
Sunderland’s Sporting Director, Speakman, acknowledges the challenges ahead:
“Everyone knows how tough it is to stay up in the Premier League. The last six promoted teams have gone straight back down. We’re not naive.”
He adds that their approach to getting promoted and staying up will differ:
“We’re working on that now, but ultimately we want a team the city and community can be proud of. We’ve built that spirit in the current squad, and that must carry into the Premier League.”
