Sunderland summer transfer window 2025: Top targets, budget, most likely signings and priority positions
Sunderland Gear Up for Premier League Return with Major Transfer Plans
After an emotional eight-year absence, Sunderland are finally back in the Premier League, preparing to take on the 2025-26 season under the brightest lights of English football.
The Black Cats sealed their return to the top flight in dramatic fashion, edging out Sheffield United in the Championship playoff final at Wembley in late May.
In this comprehensive transfer window preview, Sports Mole explores Sunderland’s key targets, financial outlook, and likely signings as they build for life in the Premier League.
Experience Wanted: Henderson on the Radar
With limited Premier League experience in their current squad, Sunderland are reportedly eyeing a move for Ajax midfielder Jordan Henderson.
The former Black Cat — who played 78 times for the club between 2008 and 2011 — is said to be open to a return to the Stadium of Light, with early discussions already underway.
Defensive Reinforcements Incoming
Defensive upgrades are a priority for manager Régis Le Bris. Chris Mepham, who impressed on loan from Bournemouth last season, is a target for a permanent deal, although Sunderland face competition from Sheffield United for the Welsh international.
Monaco’s versatile defender Wilfried Singo is also on the club’s radar. Capable of playing at both centre-back and full-back, the Ivorian has attracted interest from both Sunderland and their fierce rivals Newcastle United.
Loan-to-Permanent Deal: Le Fée Set to Stay
Enzo Le Fée is expected to make his stay at Sunderland permanent, with a buy obligation in his loan deal triggered following the club’s promotion.
The midfielder’s arrival represents an early success in what’s expected to be a busy transfer window for the newly promoted side.
Budget and Strategy
Despite Ipswich Town’s struggles last season despite spending over £100m, Sunderland are expected to be active in the market, combining ambition with caution.
The club’s playoff triumph has unlocked more than £200m in revenue, giving them a strong financial base to strengthen their squad.
Importantly, Sunderland are in a favourable position under the Premier League’s Profit & Sustainability Rules (PSR), unlike fellow promoted clubs Leeds United and Burnley, who face tighter restrictions. This gives Le Bris and his recruitment team a key advantage heading into the window.
Other Potential Arrivals
Reims defender Cedric Kipré is another name linked with Sunderland, having caught the eye with solid performances for West Brom and Cardiff City in recent years. He has yet to test himself in the Premier League, making him an intriguing option.
Departures Could Shape the Window
Sunderland’s transfer activity will also depend on potential outgoings. Jobe Bellingham is reportedly attracting interest from Bundesliga clubs Borussia Dortmund and Eintracht Frankfurt after a standout Championship campaign.
Dan Neil, another key figure in midfield, is being tracked by Serie A side Roma, which could further impact Le Bris’s summer plans.
Wide Options Under Review
After Tommy Watson’s £10m move to Brighton and the ongoing fitness concerns surrounding Ian Poveda, Sunderland are expected to target reinforcements on the flanks.
The club is looking to support existing wide players like Patrick Roberts and Eliezer Mayenda ahead of the Premier League kickoff in August.
With a nine-figure transfer budget, promising targets, and a manager eager to make his mark, Sunderland’s return to the Premier League is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched stories of the summer.
