Sunderland and Aston Villa battle for €42million rated-defensive sensation

Sunderland weigh Europa League boost and league risk

Sunderland’s Europa League return brings promise and jeopardy, with recent English entrants all reaching at least the last 16 but suffering an average league drop of 1.66 places. Away from the pitch, an On This Day piece recalls Roker Park’s rejected 1972 beer licence bid.

On 2 August 1972, plans to sell beer at Roker Park promised extra facilities for Sunderland fans, but magistrates rejected Vaux’s licence bid despite police backing.

Sunderland’s Europa League return may dent league form – English clubs drop 1.66 places on average – but recent Premier League entrants have all reached at least the last 16.

Sunderland weigh Dayann Methalie move as West Ham target duo

Sunderland are pushing to sign Toulouse defender Dayann Methalie, with Olivier Cloarec indicating a sale could happen for the right fee. West Ham are also targeting Simon Adingra and Wilson Isidor, while Sunderland lost 1-0 to Leeds in pre-season.

Sunderland’s 26-27 home kit has drawn criticism after fans spotted stripe misalignment on retail shirts, raising quality control concerns despite praise for its retro design.

Thomas Meunier rejected claims on X that Marseille had an agreement with him, insisting he had ‘never had an agreement’ and making clear Sunderland were his first choice.

Sunderland are pushing to sign Toulouse defender Dayann Methalie, with president Olivier Cloarec admitting a sale could happen for the right fee, reportedly around £25m.

Sheffield Wednesday are close to sending Ike Ugbo to Apollon Limassol after his struggles. Sunderland were among the clubs beaten to his signing in 2024.

West Ham are targeting Sunderland pair Simon Adingra and Wilson Isidor. Sunderland would sell Adingra only for a premium fee, while Isidor has also drawn interest.

Sunderland lost 1-0 to Leeds in pre-season after Melker Ellborg was caught out by Lukas Nmecha. Alan Browne impressed again, while several World Cup returnees got valuable minutes.

Sunderland are portrayed as a stable, well-run club under Kyril Louis-Dreyfus, with a clear long-term plan, strong culture and players increasingly keen to stay and develop.