Sunderland are on the brink of completing a significant move for Simon Adingra from Brighton & Hove Albion, in a deal worth £21 million plus performance-based bonuses. The 22-year-old Ivory Coast international is expected to bring Premier League experience and explosive forward play to the newly promoted side.
Adingra is currently on Wearside, where he is undergoing the final stages of his transfer, including a medical, which took place on Wednesday. Sources close to the club suggest that an official announcement is imminent as Regis Le Bris continues his aggressive squad reinforcement strategy ahead of the new season.
Premier League-Ready Talent with International Pedigree
Simon Adingra, who joined Brighton from FC Nordsjælland in 2022, made 73 appearances for the Seagulls across two seasons. Though he was a regular under Roberto De Zerbi, his role was reduced last season under new head coach Fabian Hürzeler, prompting the move.
Adingra rose to continental prominence after being named Young Player of the Tournament at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where he played a key role in helping Ivory Coast lift the trophy on home soil. His pace, directness, and attacking flair are seen as vital assets for Sunderland’s survival and potential success in the Premier League.
January Talks Revisited: Adingra Was Always on Sunderland’s Radar
Sunderland’s interest in Adingra dates back to the January transfer window, when negotiations included him as part of a wider deal involving their rising star Tommy Watson. Watson moved to Brighton in a £10m deal before returning to Sunderland on loan. Although a direct swap failed at that time, Sunderland retained a strong interest in Adingra and have now succeeded in securing their target.
Sunderland’s Summer Spending Surges
The addition of Adingra follows a series of ambitious transfers by Sunderland in what has become a record-breaking summer for the club. Other recent signings include:
-
Enzo Le Fée: Permanent move from Roma for £20 million, after a strong loan spell.
-
Habib Diarra: Senegal international midfielder signed for £30 million, breaking the club’s transfer record.
-
Noah Sadiki: DR Congo international acquired from Union Saint-Gilloise for around £18 million.
This investment signals Sunderland’s intent to not only survive in the Premier League but to compete confidently with established clubs.
Sunderland Also Eyeing Jordan Henderson
Reports have linked Sunderland with a potential move for former Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson, who has become a free agent after parting ways with Ajax. While no formal approach has been confirmed, Henderson’s experience and leadership would provide invaluable depth to a relatively young squad.
Brighton Face Potential Exit of Evan Ferguson
Meanwhile, Brighton could see another player depart as AS Roma have expressed interest in Evan Ferguson, the young Republic of Ireland striker. Ferguson spent the second half of last season on loan at West Ham United, and Roma are believed to be considering a formal offer in the coming days.
Final Thoughts: Sunderland’s Ambition on Full Display
With Simon Adingra’s arrival imminent, Sunderland are signaling a clear message to the Premier League—they are not here just to make up the numbers. Backed by strong financial support and a clear vision from manager Regis Le Bris, the Black Cats are building a competitive, youth-driven, and dynamic squad ready for top-flight challenges.
Adingra’s pace, talent, and international pedigree could be a game-changer, and with further signings on the horizon, Sunderland’s return to the Premier League promises to be a bold new chapter in the club’s storied history.
