Sunderland’s summer transfer activity has stepped up noticeably, with several high-value moves under discussion that could reshape the squad. Reports suggest the club is pursuing a left-back target from Toulouse and holding interest in wide options at Bayer Leverkusen and Monaco, while other clubs are also circling some of Sunderland’s players.
Where the money is said to be going
German outlet Bild has linked Sunderland with Ernest Poku of Bayer Leverkusen, suggesting the 22-year-old could be available for approximately £21.4m. Poku, who produced six goals and ten assists last season, is contracted until 2030 and would represent a wide attacking reinforcement following Bertrand Traoré’s departure.
Meanwhile, reports indicate Sunderland have taken a fresh approach for Toulouse left-back Dayann Methalie. French sources cite a bid of over £21.4m including add-ons, though Toulouse are holding out for nearer £25.7m. Methalie is regarded as a versatile option capable of playing left-back, left wing-back or left-sided centre-back — a priority position after the exit of Dennis Cirkin.
Other targets and interest
- Simon Adingra has been linked with interest from Roma; Italian press report the player is valued by Sunderland at about £30m and is under contract until 2030.
- Reports say Toulouse have been in no hurry to sell Methalie and view a higher fee as appropriate.
- Newcastle and Aston Villa have reportedly shown interest in Methalie, but Sunderland are said to be well placed.
Coverage from outlets including Bild, La Gazzetta dello Sport, Leggo, RMC Sport, L’Équipe and The Guardian has been referenced in the various transfers stories. TEAMtalk and Sacha Tavolieri have also been cited on the club’s approaches and the status of negotiations.
What this means for Sunderland
If completed, these moves would amount to a sizeable recruitment outlay approaching the kind of six-figure sums rarely seen at the club in quick succession. Strengthening the left side of defence and adding pace and creativity on the flanks are clear recruitment priorities. How these reported bids fit into the club’s wider strategy — such as contract renewals, sales to balance the books, or prioritising certain positions — will be the key question for supporters and the board over the coming weeks.
| Player | Reported fee | Contract detail |
|---|---|---|
| Ernest Poku | ~£21.4m | Contract until 2030 |
| Dayann Methalie | >£21.4m (Toulouse want ~£25.7m) | Reported five-year deal discussed |
| Simon Adingra | ~£30m (Sunderland valuation) | Contract until 2030 |
For Sunderland fans, the coming weeks are likely to bring the most important transfer window of recent seasons. Any arrivals at the reported prices will increase expectations on and off the pitch, while failures to land targets may see the club pivot or seek alternatives. Close attention will now turn to official confirmations from clubs and the terms eventually announced by Sunderland’s recruitment team.
