Worse than selling Jobe: “Outstanding” Sunderland star wanted by PL clubs
Sunderland Face Transfer Battles Despite Premier League Return
Sunderland celebrated a triumphant day at Wembley last month, defeating Sheffield United in the play-off final to secure their return to the Premier League.
However, despite their promotion, the Wearside club are already facing pressure in the transfer market, with top clubs eyeing some of their standout players.
According to Sky Sports, Borussia Dortmund are in advanced negotiations to sign central midfielder Jobe Bellingham.
Fabrizio Romano also reports that Bellingham has made the Bundesliga side his priority, though Sunderland will not sanction a move unless his £33 million release clause is met.
Whether Dortmund are willing to meet that valuation remains to be seen. However, Bellingham might not be the only key departure from the Stadium of Light this summer.
Premier League Clubs Target Sunderland Defender
Following Sunderland’s successful 2024/25 campaign under Regis Le Bris, Premier League interest is mounting—not just in Bellingham, but also in right-back Trai Hume.
Sky Sports reports that Everton and Wolves are monitoring the Northern Ireland international, with clubs in Spain also expressing interest in securing his services before the transfer window closes.
The report doesn’t specify Sunderland’s asking price, but losing Hume could deal a heavier blow than parting ways with Bellingham.
Why Hume’s Departure Would Hurt More Than Bellingham’s
Although Bellingham is clearly a rising star, his impact last season wasn’t among the most statistically significant.
He recorded just four goals and three assists and did not rank in the club’s top four for key metrics like tackles per game or chance creation—highlighting his role as more of a versatile contributor rather than a game-changer at either end.
In contrast, Hume was one of Sunderland’s top performers across both defensive and attacking stats from his right-back position.
The 23-year-old led the team in expected assists (xA), big chances created, and tackles made—underlining his influence on both ends of the pitch.
Described as “outstanding” by journalist Josh Bunting, Hume’s ability to blend defensive reliability with offensive creativity makes him an essential asset in Sunderland’s fight to stay up next season.
Losing him to Premier League rivals like Wolves or Everton could prove more damaging than the departure of Bellingham.
The onus is now on Sunderland to resist offers and persuade Hume to stay at the Stadium of Light as they prepare for life back in the top flight.
