A round-up of the latest Sunderland-related transfer news and speculation...
Tuesday’s transfer deadline looms ever larger, and it’s been a busy day of activity for Sunderland, with contract renewals, exit talk, and continued speculation over their search for a new winger.
Firstly, the Black Cats have brought to an end any chance of Wilson Isidor leaving the club by announcing a new long-term contract for the popular striker. On his 26th birthday, the Haiti international has put pen to paper on a deal that is set to run until the summer of 2030, and reflecting on the decision to hand the forward an extension, Director of Football Florent Ghisolfi said: “Wilson has been an important part of the journey this club has been on, from fighting for promotion to establishing ourselves back in the Premier League.
“What represents Sunderland is his attitude and commitment to the team. Whether he starts the game or comes from the bench to make an impact, he always gives everything he has. That mentality and pride are an important part of our identity. He has already grown a lot with us, but he is still young and there is more work to do and more progress to make. We are proud that Wilson wants to continue this journey with Sunderland, and we are looking forward to seeing him keep developing and contributing to what we are building together.”
Meanwhile, defender Jenson Seelt has signed a new contract at the Stadium of Light before completing a loan move to Championship outfit Swansea City.
The Dutchman spent most of last season out on loan as well, but like Isidor, has now extended his stay on Wearside to 2030. On the 23-year-old’s temporary exit, Ghisolfi said: “Jenson has earned his new contract based on his performances during his time at the Club. “We are looking for him to continue to develop his game whilst on loan at Swansea this season.
“By signing the contract before he completes the loan move, it demonstrates that we see him as a player who is very much part of Sunderland’s plans in the future, which is what we’re all working towards.”
Elsewhere, Sunderland’s hopes of signing Jack Grealish look to have been dealt a significant blow, with the player understood to prefer a return to Everton, where he spent last season on loan.
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Earlier this week, the Manchester City winger emerged as a shock loan target for Regis Le Bris’ side, but several outlets have since reported that talks are underway between the player’s camp and the Toffees - with his current employers also eyeing a swoop for Everton star Iliman Ndiaye that potentially could see Grealish travel in the other direction as a makeweight.
Sunderland’s hunt for reinforcements in wide areas goes on, however, with the Black Cats still being linked with a swoop for Marseille attacker Igor Paxaio. To that end, L’Equipe suggest that his current club are split over his future, with the sporting department eager to keep him at all costs and the behind-the-scenes hierarchy willing to sanction a sale.
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