Sunderland’s Summer Overhaul Ends with Geertruida Arrival — But Misses Out on Late Kouadio Deal

Sunderland’s whirlwind summer transfer window has officially closed, capping off one of the most ambitious recruitment drives in the club’s recent history. Under the guidance of head coach Regis Le Bris, the Black Cats welcomed a host of new faces to the Stadium of Light, including marquee names like Granit Xhaka and Dutch international Lutsharel Geertruida.

Geertruida, who joined on a season-long loan from RB Leipzig, was the final addition before the deadline and arrives with a clear sense of purpose.

“First of all, I want to thank God for this opportunity, and I also want to thank the Club for their trust in me,” said the 23-year-old defender. “I’ve always wanted to play in the Premier League, and I’m so excited now that my opportunity is here.”

Geertruida’s arrival adds further depth to a squad that has already impressed in its return to the top flight, with Sunderland securing two wins from their opening three matches.

❌ Kouadio Deal Collapses Late

Despite the flurry of signings, Sunderland were reportedly denied the chance to make one final move before the window shut. According to FiorentinaNews via Sport Witness, the club made “concrete moves” to sign 19-year-old defender Eddy Kouadio from Fiorentina.

The Serie A side ultimately blocked the transfer, even cancelling their own pursuit of Manchester United’s Victor Lindelöf in order to convince Kouadio to stay and play a more prominent role in Florence.

Standing at 6'3", Kouadio is considered one of Italy’s brightest young defensive prospects, having been capped at both Under-18 and Under-19 level. Though raw, with just one senior Serie A appearance to his name, Sunderland saw him as a long-term investment who could grow into a key figure at the Stadium of Light.

🛑 Window Closed, Eyes on January

With the transfer window now shut, Sunderland can only add free agents until January. While missing out on Kouadio is a disappointment, the club’s overall business has been widely praised. Fifteen new signings have reshaped the squad, giving Le Bris the tools to compete in the Premier League after an eight-year absence.

The energy and cohesion shown in early performances suggest that Sunderland are not just here to survive—they’re here to make a statement.

As Geertruida put it: “We are new to the league, so we need to fight, and I want to be a part of that.”

The fight continues, and Sunderland look ready.