Sunderland Nears £20.5M Signing of Brighton Winger Simon Adingra

Sunderland is poised to complete the signing of Ivorian winger Simon Adingra from Brighton & Hove Albion for a fee reportedly around £20.5 million. Adingra, 23, is seen as a talented and dynamic winger with Premier League experience, known for his pace, dribbling, and goal threat, although his defensive contributions and physicality have room for improvement. His breakthrough came during the 2023-24 season under former Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi, but competition for places under the current manager Fabian Hurzeler limited his opportunities, prompting the move. Sunderland views Adingra as a significant addition to their attacking options, complementing new signing Chemsdine Talbi and providing excitement and unpredictability on the wings. The transfer is part of a busy summer for Sunderland, who have also signed several other players, while Brighton benefits financially and adjusts their squad with the arrival of young winger Tommy Watson from Sunderland. Adingra's performances for club and country, including contributing to Ivory Coast's Africa Cup of Nations victory in 2024, highlight his potential to impact Sunderland's Premier League campaign.