Report: Sunderland smash transfer record for Strasbourg midfield talent | OneFootball

Sunderland Break Transfer Record to Land Strasbourg Star

Sunderland have completed what is understood to be a club-record £30 million transfer for Strasbourg midfielder, as the Wearside club continues to reshape its squad for a return to Premier League football. The 21-year-old signs a five-year contract, following a breakthrough campaign in Ligue 1 that saw him help his side to European qualification.

This high-profile acquisition marks Sunderland’s second signing of the summer and is being viewed as a direct replacement for Jobe Bellingham, who departed for Borussia Dortmund last month in a deal potentially rising to £30 million.

Big Statement from Sunderland Ahead of Premier League Return

The move signals clear intent from Sunderland’s hierarchy to not merely survive, but to compete, in their first top-flight campaign since 2016–17. Their latest signing was instrumental in Strasbourg’s impressive seventh-place finish in Ligue 1 last season, making 31 appearances across all competitions.

https://x.com/SunderlandAFC/status/1940078031999025276

Crucially, Strasbourg’s campaign culminated in European qualification for only the second time in two decades, underlining the player’s growing stature on the continent. His performance levels also earned international attention, including a standout moment in June when he found the net in a friendly against England at the City Ground.

Speaking after completing his switch to Wearside, he said:

“I’m happy and excited to become a Black Cat and I can’t wait to discover the Stadium of Light and its fans. Everyone saw last season’s success and I guarantee that I’ll give everything for this team and fight for these colours in the Premier League. I’m ready for this challenge and I can’t wait to get started.”

Midfield Reinforcements Taking Shape

Sunderland’s recruitment drive has been swift and calculated. Earlier this window, they secured the permanent signing of Enzo Le Fée, following a successful loan spell from Roma. His retention adds further depth to a midfield that now boasts versatility, energy, and creativity heading into a demanding Premier League schedule.

Replacing Bellingham was always going to require a major investment and the club believes this new addition will offer both immediate impact and long-term value. The reported fee not only reflects the midfielder’s growing reputation but also the Premier League’s increasingly competitive market for emerging European talent.

Strasbourg’s Rising Profile Boosted by Premier League Sale

Strasbourg continue to cement their reputation as a breeding ground for young talent, with this transfer the latest example of their successful player development model. The club’s ability to secure European football last season will only enhance its attractiveness to future prospects.

Their latest export’s Premier League switch underscores the cross-channel scouting networks now in play and Sunderland’s ambition to tap into high-upside talent early. With more moves expected on both sides of the channel this summer, the early signs suggest Sunderland’s return to the top flight will be more than just about survival.