“These Signings Should be Completed Before July” – Seven Transfer Deals Sunderland Could Seal Ahead of Premier League Return Makes Sunderland READY for Premier League

Seven Transfer Deals Sunderland Could Seal Ahead of Premier League Return

Sunderland are wasting no time reshaping their squad as they gear up for a long-awaited return to the Premier League, and several high-profile moves could soon be on the cards at the Stadium of Light.

Following their dramatic Championship play-off final victory over Sheffield United, new manager Regis Le Bris has already overseen key developments in the transfer market. A clause in Enzo Le Fée’s loan deal from Roma was automatically triggered upon promotion, meaning the midfielder is now a permanent Black Cats player.

However, there have also been high-profile exits. Jobe Bellingham has completed a headline-making move to Borussia Dortmund in what could become a club-record sale, while Wembley goal hero Tommy Watson finalised a previously agreed transfer to Brighton. Loan stars Chris Mepham and Salis Abdul Samed have returned to Bournemouth and Lens respectively, though Sunderland are believed to be keen on keeping at least one of them.

Here are seven deals the Black Cats could complete as they look to strengthen for the top flight.

1. Jordan Henderson – Ajax
   Could Sunderland’s homecoming story take a romantic turn? The return of Jordan Henderson, now 35, has been widely speculated. The former Black Cats academy graduate, who lifted every major domestic trophy at Liverpool, is currently at Ajax but is believed to be available. A move back to his boyhood club would provide Sunderland with invaluable leadership and top-flight experience. Henderson “would give leadership and experience to the Black Cats side,” the report notes.
2. Lennon Miller – Motherwell
   At the opposite end of the experience scale is 18-year-old Lennon Miller, the highly rated Motherwell midfielder. Having just made his senior debut for Scotland, contributing an assist in a 4–0 win over Liechtenstein, Miller has been linked with several clubs. Sunderland are reportedly among those keeping close tabs on the teenager, whose talent and energy would align perfectly with the club’s long-term vision.
3. Harry Toffolo – Nottingham Forest
   With defensive depth needed, Forest full-back Harry Toffolo is a name firmly on Sunderland’s radar. Out of contract at the end of June, the 28-year-old could represent a smart free-agent signing to bolster Le Bris’ back line with Premier League know-how.
4. Chris Mepham – Bournemouth
   Wales international Chris Mepham was pivotal during Sunderland’s promotion campaign, including a standout display at Wembley. Though Bournemouth have extended his contract, he is believed to be available this summer. His familiarity with the club and fans could make a return an easy fit.
5. Max Johnston – Sturm Graz
   Another full-back option, Max Johnston is attracting Premier League interest after impressing with Austrian side Sturm Graz. The 20-year-old, a two-cap Scotland international, has played in all three European competitions and would bring energy and tactical flexibility to Sunderland’s defence.
6. Tommy Doyle – Wolves
   Tommy Doyle is back on Sunderland’s radar. The former Manchester City academy midfielder, now at Wolves, struggled for minutes last season and could be on the move. A technically gifted player with Championship and top-flight experience, Doyle would offer depth and creativity in midfield.
7. Matthis Abline – Nantes
   A relatively new name, French striker Matthis Abline has drawn plaudits while on international duty at the Under-21 Euros. Sunderland are among several European clubs monitoring his progress. The Nantes forward could provide much-needed firepower as the Black Cats look to compete in the Premier League.

With momentum building and Premier League football returning to Wearside, Sunderland’s activity in the coming weeks will be key to sustaining their top-flight status—and perhaps even pushing beyond survival.