Sunderland Closing In On A Move For This PSG Versatile Defender: What Impact Will It Have On The Premier League Club? | OneFootball

Sunderland are currently working to strengthen their hold in the Premier League, and in the meantime, some big news has come to light. According to a report by talkSPORT, Paris Saint-Germain defender Nordi Mukiele is now close to joining the club based at the Stadium of Light. Pictures have also emerged in which he was seen watching Sunderland’s victory against West Ham from the stands yesterday. This sight makes it clear that the deal can be considered almost confirmed.

Mukiele made his mark playing at RB Leipzig, where his pace and defensive awareness proved him to be a reliable player on the European stage. At the same time, after moving to PSG, the 27-year-old right-back did not get a chance to play regularly and he spent last season on loan at Bayer Leverkusen.

He may not have secured a completely permanent place in Germany, but no one denied his quality. Sunderland are now betting on a player who can play in multiple positions and bring flexibility to the team structure. The deal also reflects the club’s ambitions, as they know how important experience and versatility are to survive in the Premier League. In this sense, Mukiele’s arrival is not just a signing but a declaration of the team’s intentions for the days to come.

Mukiele’s impact on Sunderland’s defensive strategy

STUTTGART, GERMANY – MARCH 16: Nordi Mukiele of Bayer 04 Leverkusen in action during the Bundesliga match between VfB Stuttgart and Bayer 04 Leverkusen at MHPArena on March 16, 2025 in Stuttgart, Germany. (Photo by Daniel Kopatsch/Getty Images)

The question now arises as to what impact the Frenchman can have on Sunderland’s defence. During his days at Leipzig, he showed that he could play comfortably at both centre-back and right-back positions.

This versatility will directly benefit Sunderland, especially when the team have to play a long season and deal with injury issues as well. Although he may have had limited opportunities at PSG, his time with Leverkusen gave him ample game time and experience

In the Premier League, a team like Sunderland have to adopt a new strategy in every match. Mukiele’s experience and his understanding of the level can prove to be useful here. He can not only stabilise the backline but also provide leadership on the pitch.

In our opinion, Sunderland’s decision has been taken at the right time. The club are getting a player who brings stability as well as flexibility. If he finds his Leipzig rhythm, Sunderland’s defence can create problems for many big clubs this season.