The Black Cats are close to completing a deal for Reinildo Mandava
Reinildo Mandava
Reinildo Mandava(Image: Getty Images)
Former Atlético Madrid defender Reinildo Mandava is set to join Sunderland on a free transfer according to reports. The Black Cats are said to have agreed a deal, with the 31-year-old set to become the club’s latest summer signing.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano declared the move was close to completion, posting, “Reinildo to Sunderland, here we go! Two-year deal done for the left-back set to join from Atlético Madrid.”
Mandava will join following the expiry of his contract with the La Liga side, where he made 74 appearances across all competitions after arriving from Lille in 2022.
He fell down the pecking order in Madrid and will now bring valuable experience to a Sunderland squad being rebuilt for Premier League football.
After investing heavily in 21-year-old midfielder Habib Diarra, who has reportedly joined in a club-record £30million deal, Sunderland are now looking to strike the right balance between youth and experience.
Described as part of an “ambitious project,” the arrival of Mandava signals another decisive move under owner Kyril Louis-Dreyfus, head coach Regis Le Bris, and incoming director of football Florent Ghisolfi.
Reinildo Mandava
Reinildo Mandava(Image: Getty Images)
Sunderland are expected to continue their recruitment drive, with Armand Laurienté a target, although goalkeeper Marcin Bulka is set to join Saudi Pro League new boys Neom SC.
Mandava brings with him the rich experience of Portuguese football, having played for reputable clubs such as Benfica, B SAD, Fafe, and Sporting da Covilha.
His signing is a strategic move for Sunderland as they eagerly prepare for the challenges and excitement of the Premier League following their much-anticipated promotion.
The Wearside faithful will be hoping his experience and tenacity will be key in their survival and success in top-flight football
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Content Image
Content Image
Make sure you don't miss out on the latest SAFC news by joining our free WhatsApp group. You can get all the breaking news and best analysis sent straight to your phone by clicking here to subscribe.
You can also subscribe to our free newsletter service. Click here to be sent all the day's biggest stories.