Sunderland Sporting Director Kristjaan Speakman during the Sky Bet Championship match between Sunderland and Derby County at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland, England, on October 1, 2024. (Photo by Michael Driver | MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Sunderland Eyeing Free Agents Again This Summer, With Chris Mepham in the Mix
As always, Sunderland will explore the free-agent market in the summer, with Kristjaan Speakman known for capitalizing on bargain opportunities.
Since their return to the Championship in 2022, the Black Cats have steadily increased their spending in transfer windows, credit to the club’s owners. While Kyril Louis-Dreyfus has faced criticism for being frugal at times, Sunderland’s approach remains focused on sustainable growth toward the Premier League. This season has showcased the results of their long-term planning.
Despite a mixed run of form under Regis Le Bris, Sunderland have transitioned from concerns about relegation last season to frustration at falling short of the top two. Their recent 3-0 defeat to Coventry City was a stark reminder of the challenges ahead. However, the club remains in a strong position and, regardless of whether they secure promotion, they will continue their methodical transfer strategy in the upcoming window.
Le Bris Leaves Door Open for Chris Mepham Deal
Sunderland will assess options across all markets—free agents, permanent signings, and loans. One name expected to be discussed is Bournemouth loanee Chris Mepham, who has made 30 Championship appearances this season, scoring once.
The Welsh defender’s contract with Bournemouth expires this summer, and transfer insider Graeme Bailey previously told Sunderland AFC News that the Cherries plan to release him, despite holding a one-year extension clause.
Speaking to The Northern Echo, Le Bris remained non-committal on a potential permanent deal for Mepham, stating that any decisions would be made at the end of the season:
“It’s too early to define what will happen next season. The group is in a really good place. We will see at the end of the season. Sometimes you would like to keep the same squad, but if you do, things could go better or worse. We don’t know yet.”
Mepham and Speakman Address Sunderland Future
Mepham himself has hinted at being open to staying at Sunderland, saying:
“You do look at options that might be available to you in the summer. It’s also important to focus on the now. I’ve made it clear I love playing my football here.”
Earlier in the season, Speakman also commented on Mepham’s future at Sunderland, explaining:
“I think that’s just a conversation we will pick up at the end of the season. From Chris’ perspective, our perspective, and Bournemouth’s perspective—that was always the plan.”
However, Bailey also revealed that Sunderland aren’t the only club monitoring Mepham, with interest coming from top-end Championship sides and even some lower-tier Premier League clubs.
A deal for Mepham is far from guaranteed, but with the defender happy at Sunderland, the Black Cats may have an edge in securing his long-term future at the Stadium of Light.
