Ellborg joins the Black Cats in a £3m move, and has signed a four-and-a-half year deal committing him to the Stadium of Light to the summer of 2030.
Welcome to Sunderland AFC, Melker Ellborg! 🧤
Arriving from Malmö FF for an undisclosed fee, the 22-year-old goalkeeper has signed a long-term contract at the Stadium of Light until summer 2030.
✍️ @livescore pic.twitter.com/gnANMMlU3d
— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) February 1, 2026
His signing will pave the way for Anthony Patterson to leave Wearside ahead of tomorrow night's transfer deadline, with last season's promotion winner set to join Millwall on loan for the remainder of the campaign.
Ellborg, who is not eligible to feature in tomorrow night's home game with Burnley, enjoyed a breakthrough 2025 in Sweden's Allsvenskan, registering five clean sheets in seven league appearances while also representing Malmo in the Champions League and Europa League, where he lined up against Nottingham Forest.
The 22-year-old started his career with IFK Berga and initially trained with their senior squad aged 12, with his first-team debut coming one year later in a friendly.
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He joined Malmo ahead of the 2021 season and spent two years in the club’s academy before joining the senior squad in 2021, with loan spells following at IFK Malmo, Ariana and Trelleborgs.
“It feels amazing to have signed for this club," said Ellborg. "The past few days have been enjoyable, from learning about the interest, getting to know the club and the people, and finalising the move.
"The club has had an excellent season so far, and I’m incredibly happy to be part of this journey. I’m aware of Sunderland’s history, and it means a lot to be part of something with such a rich tradition.
"I’m really looking forward to meeting everyone at the Stadium of Light on Monday and hopefully playing in front of the fans soon.”
Sunderland's sporting director, Kristjaan Speakman, added: "Melker has enjoyed a very positive season in Sweden, breaking into the starting XI and producing standout performances in the Allsvenskan and the Europa League.
"Physically strong, he has the athleticism of a modern goalkeeper and is calm and composed in possession. Melker has a lot of potential, and we believe he is ready to take this step and join our squad. We are very much looking forward to working with him.”