Exclusive: Sunderland’s ‘big’ transfer plan revealed
Sunderland’s hierarchy will make “big” funds available for a summer overhaul ahead of their Premier League return, sources have told Football Insider.
The Black Cats secured a place in next season’s top-flight with a 2-1 win over Sheffield United in the EFL Championship play-off final at Wembley.
After an eight-year absence, manager Regis Le Bris steered the Wearside club to promotion with the Championship’s youngest squad – but the club are aware heavy investment is needed ahead of the 2025-26 campaign.
The Black Cats’ Wembley win triggered the permanent transfer of Enzo Le Fee as part of his loan deal from Roma, and though his fee could rise to £20million – there is believed to be further scope for squad investment.
Henderson linked at Sunderland target Premier League experience
Top of Le Bris’ wanted list will be additions with Premier League experience under their belts – and a former Sunderland captain has already been linked with an emotional return to his hometown club.
Former Black Cats player, manager and chairman Niall Quinn stated earlier this week that Jordan Henderson could be in line to make a summer move to the Stadium of Light after 14 years away.
Speaking live on talkSPORT, Quinn hinted that a return could be on the cards for the Ajax and England midfielder, saying: “From the day Jordan left, and Liverpool paid £20million, there was a big wide door open for him anytime he wanted to come back.”
| Position | Team | Played | Won | Drawn | Lost | Points |
| 1 | Leeds United (C) | 46 | 29 | 13 | 4 | 100 |
| 2 | Burnley (P) | 46 | 28 | 16 | 2 | 100 |
| 3 | Sheffield United | 46 | 28 | 8 | 10 | 90 |
| 4 | Sunderland (P) | 46 | 21 | 13 | 12 | 76 |
| 5 | Coventry | 46 | 20 | 9 | 17 | 69 |
| 6 | Bristol City | 46 | 17 | 17 | 12 | 68 |
Sunderland will be desperate to avoid an instant return to the Championship next term – a fate which has befallen each of the last six promoted clubs in the Premier League.
The Black Cats are ambitious but aware they will have to strengthen significantly to have a chance of survival.
Bellingham replacement needed after Dortmund agreement reached
Meanwhile, Football Insider revealed on Wednesday (28 May) that Sunderland star Jobe Bellingham has verbally agreed to join Borussia Dortmund.
The attacking midfielder is reportedly ready to finalise terms with the Bundesliga club and follow in the footsteps of big brother Jude, who spent three seasons at Westfalenstadion before moving to Real Madrid.
The 19-year-old also held talks with RB Leipzig and Eintracht Frankfurt, but sources say Dortmund have won the race for his signature.
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