Sunderland is reportedly working to finalize a deal that would see winger Simon Adingra join Ligue 1 side AS Monaco on an initial loan, with the goal of eventually recovering most of the £21 million they paid Brighton for him last summer.
The Adingra Deal
The 23-year-old Ivory Coast international has struggled to secure a permanent spot in Régis Le Bris’s starting lineup since his high-profile move. With the 7:00 PM deadline looming, the proposed move to Monaco—who are preparing for a Champions League clash with PSG—includes:
- Medical Status: Adingra is scheduled for a medical in London today.
- Financials: Sunderland is expected to receive a seven-figure loan fee and has included an option-to-buy clause aimed at recouping their initial investment.
- The “Aouchiche” Domino: This deal depends on Adil Aouchiche finalizing his permanent move to Schalke. Aouchiche’s departure is necessary to free up one of Sunderland’s six allotted international loan slots.
Squad Depth
The Black Cats feel comfortable letting Adingra go due to their significant depth in wide positions. Options for Le Bris include:
- Current Talent: Romaine Mundle, Chemsdine Talbi, and Chris Rigg.
- Versatile Options: Bertrand Traoré, Eliezer Mayenda, Enzo Le Fée, and new January arrival Jocelin Ta Bi.
Other Transfer Activity
Sunderland has already confirmed the departure of defender Leo Hjelde, who has joined Sheffield United on loan.
The 22-year-old, a key part of last season’s promotion campaign, has recently recovered from Achilles surgery. Sporting Director Kristjaan Speakman noted that the move is designed to get Hjelde regular minutes at a club Sunderland trusts, describing it as a “positive collaboration” for all involved.
