Why Sunderland AFC should sign Omari Hutchinson from Ipswich Town – there are 3 clear reasons
Sunderland Begin Premier League Preparations After Dramatic Promotion
Sunderland are getting ready for life back in the Premier League following their thrilling promotion from the Championship.
Despite spending much of the season in fourth place, the Black Cats entered the play-offs as underdogs after ending the regular campaign with five straight losses. But they defied expectations with a dramatic semi-final win over Coventry City and clinched promotion at Wembley, defeating Sheffield United 2-1 thanks to late goals from Eliezer Mayenda and Tommy Watson—overturning Tyrese Campbell’s early opener for the Blades.
With Premier League football secured, Sunderland have already made moves in the transfer market. They’ve broken their transfer record by signing Enzo Le Fée from Roma for around £20 million. They also agreed to sell Jobe Bellingham to Borussia Dortmund in a deal worth an initial £27.8 million—freeing up funds for further summer signings.
Gabby Agbonlahor: Sunderland Should Target Omari Hutchinson
talkSPORT pundit Gabby Agbonlahor recently suggested that Sunderland should pursue Omari Hutchinson, who was relegated with Ipswich Town last season. The 20-year-old winger, on loan from Chelsea, had impressed with his flair and attacking threat—sparking debate among Black Cats supporters.
Here are three compelling reasons why Hutchinson could be an ideal addition to Sunderland’s squad:
1. Doubts Surrounding Patrick Roberts
One of the toughest post-promotion decisions a manager must make is determining which players can adapt to the Premier League. Sunderland head coach Regis Le Bris faces a number of selection dilemmas—and Patrick Roberts may be among them.
Roberts had a limited impact last season, scoring only two goals and contributing eight assists in 48 appearances. The season before, his return was even lower: zero goals and just two assists in 32 games.
Although he helped shift the momentum in Sunderland’s play-off final after coming off the bench, Roberts’ form over the last two seasons has raised concerns about whether he can deliver at Premier League level. If Le Bris decides to upgrade that position, Hutchinson offers a promising alternative. At seven years younger and with greater pace, he could bring a new dynamic threat on the counterattack.
2. Valuable Premier League Experience
Sunderland fielded the youngest squad in the Championship last season, averaging just 23.6 years of age. While this youth-driven approach has been a success in the second tier, Premier League experience will be vital for survival.
Interestingly, all three teams relegated from the top flight—Leicester, Ipswich, and Southampton—chose not to bring in many players with Premier League pedigree. It’s a decision that arguably cost them.
Hutchinson may still be developing, but his 32 appearances in the Premier League with Ipswich and Chelsea give him a head start. Though Ipswich were relegated, the experience of a survival battle could be invaluable for a Sunderland side likely to face similar challenges next season.
3. Fits Sunderland’s Transfer Strategy – With a Twist
Sunderland’s recruitment model—focused on young, high-potential players—has been key to their recent success. While they’ll likely stick to that approach, top-flight survival may require balancing youth with battle-tested players.
Hutchinson is a rare blend of both. He’s young, talented, and aligns with the club’s long-term philosophy, but he also brings experience from the top level. For a team needing to bridge the gap between potential and performance, he could be the perfect fit.
Conclusion
Sunderland have made a sensational return to the Premier League, but staying there is an entirely different challenge.
Strengthening the squad with smart, strategic signings like Omari Hutchinson—who combines youth, speed, and Premier League experience—could be key to making their top-flight stay a lasting one.
