Hugo Ekitike reacts to Sunderland’s Talbi announcement amid Liverpool links
Hugo Ekitike has reacted to the news that Sunderland have signed Chemsdine Talbi from Club Brugge amid the striker’s links to Liverpool.
The Black Cats are utilising the transfer market to prepare for the challenge posed by the Premier League after winning the Championship playoff final.
Amid their efforts to bridge the gap between the top flight and the second tier, Sunderland have signed Habib Diarra from Strasbourg, as well as the likes of former Atletico Madrid defender Reinildo.
The North East outfit appeared set for a tough summer when star man Jobe Bellingham joined Borussia Dortmund, but the Stadium of Light faithful have subsequently been excited by high-profile additions.
Liverpool target Ekitike reacts as Sunderland make fifth summer signing
Talbi’s addition has bolstered Regis Le Bris’ options on the wing as Sunderland strive to acclimatise to the Premier League.
The North East side announced his capture via Instagram on Wednesday, 9 July, as they posted: “Welcome to Sunderland AFC, Chemsdine Talbi!
“Sealing a five-year contract at the Stadium of Light, the 20-year-old winger arrives from Club Brugge KV for an undisclosed fee.”
The Mackems’ post attracted a like from Ekitike, who has been linked with Liverpool as Arne Slot looks to strengthen his attack.
Le Bris transfer business offers Premier League survival chance
Football Insider verdict
Recent seasons have epitomised that the gap between the Championship and the Premier League is widening, as last term marked the second campaign that all three newly promoted sides were relegated back to the second tier.
| Chemsdine Talbi stats | All competitions 2024/25 |
| Appearances | 44 |
| Goals | 7 |
| Assists | 5 |
Consequently, Sunderland, Leeds United, and Burnley must all successfully navigate the transfer window this summer to give themselves a fighting chance of avoiding the drop.
But the Black Cats must be pleased with the business they have made under Le Bris so far, as they have acquired talent from Europe’s other top-flight leagues.
For instance, midfielder Enzo Le Fee showed his creative sparkle for Sunderland while on loan from Italian giants Roma in the Championship, and should be able to adjust to the Premier League.
Meanwhile, Diarra proved himself as one of the most promising youngsters in Ligue 1 last term, notching four goals and five assists in 30 league appearances for Strasbourg.
Talbi should also prove to be an asset for Le Bris’ men, having scored five goals and produced three assists in the Belgian top flight last season.
Elsewhere, Jordan Henderson has been tipped to complete his Sunderland return in a Mackem News exclusive.