Sunderland Closes £21M Transfer Window with Key Deals Pending

Sunderland AFC is poised to finalize its dealings in a busy transfer window, with significant movements expected before the deadline. The club has initiated talks with AS Monaco regarding a loan deal for winger Simon Adingra, who joined Sunderland for £21 million from Brighton.
Simon Adingra’s Potential Move
The 23-year-old Ivorian international is set for a medical examination in London ahead of a proposed loan transfer to Monaco. Sunderland aims to recover a substantial part of the initial transfer fee through this deal.
Adingra’s Journey at Sunderland
- Joined Sunderland in the summer.
- Signed a five-year contract at the Stadium of Light.
- Struggled to secure a starting position under manager Regis Le Bris.
- Missed selection for Ivory Coast’s Africa Cup of Nations squad.
In addition to Monaco, Adingra has attracted interest from major clubs like Real Madrid and Juventus, highlighting his potential on the European stage.
Loan Agreement Details
The proposed deal with Monaco includes a seven-figure loan fee, along with an option to buy. This clause could allow Sunderland to recoup most of their initial investment, depending on the completion of a concurrent transfer involving midfielder Adil Aouchiche.
Aouchiche, who has been instrumental at Aberdeen, is set to move to Schalke in Bundesliga 2. This shift will free up one of Sunderland’s six international loan slots, facilitating Adingra’s transfer.
Additional Transfer Activity
On the same day, Sunderland confirmed the loan transfer of defender Leo Hjelde to Sheffield United. The 22-year-old, who has recovered from Achilles surgery, was instrumental in Sunderland’s promotion campaign last season.
Official Statements
Sunderland’s sporting director, Kristjaan Speakman, commented on Hjelde’s move: “Leo is motivated to play games, and we wanted to ensure his next opportunity matched his ambitions and our own. We know Sheffield United well and feel this can be a positive collaboration for all three parties.”
The transfer deadline looms, with Sunderland eager to cement their squad ahead of the ongoing season.



