Richard Mennear

Former Sunderland full-back Phil Bardsley praised Trai Hume’s versatility, professionalism and attitude ahead of Sunderland’s Premier League and Europa League campaigns. Bardsley compared Hume’s adaptability to that of John O’Shea and said he could be relied upon to play in unfamiliar roles for the team. He urged Hume to keep working and believing in his progress, describing him as potentially the second-best right-back in Sunderland’s history.

Sunderland are reportedly competing with Brentford to sign West Ham United left-back El Hadji Malick Diouf, whose valuation is estimated at £40m-£50m. The 21-year-old Senegal international joined West Ham from Slavia Prague in 2025 and made 35 appearances during his debut season, but is now linked with a move following West Ham's relegation. Sunderland are reshaping their squad and wage bill, with several departures already completed or imminent, while manager Régis Le Bris says the club is working to add two to four players before the transfer window closes.

Sunderland have denied reports that they were close to signing Al-Ittihad winger Moussa Diaby, while Sporting CP are reportedly holding firm on Geny Catamo’s €60 million release clause. Hull City have broken their transfer record to sign Olympiacos goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis on a five-year deal. Elsewhere, Real Madrid have reportedly set a €150 million valuation for Vinicius Junior, Crystal Palace are pursuing Zavier Gozo, and Fulham have improved their offer for Southampton midfielder Shea Charles.

Sunderland are expected to increase their transfer activity during the final weeks of the summer window. Defensive options are a particular concern following Dennis Cirkin’s departure and the expected exit of Arthur Masuaku, while Reinildo is the only recognised left-back remaining and has entered the final year of his contract. Noah Sadiki has returned to training after World Cup commitments and wants to improve his attacking output. Sunderland will face Leeds United in New Jersey before completing their United States tour in Pennsylvania.

Eddie Howe is set to leave Newcastle United after nearly five years in charge. Dwight Yorke believes losing both Premier League derbies to Sunderland and finishing below their local rivals made Howe's position unsustainable, despite his 2025 Carabao Cup triumph and two Champions League qualifications. Yorke also praised Sunderland for exceeding expectations and qualifying for Europe, while urging the club to prioritize Premier League survival and a top-12 finish during its second season back in the division.