Sunderland AFC transfer news LIVE: Dion Sanderson reports as Cats prepare for summer business
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The Black Cats have announced that they face Spennymoor Town in their first pre-season fixture on July 3 as preparations for the 2021-22 season begin.
Sunderland have lots of work to do in the transfer window before then, after the club released several first-team players last month.
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Hide AdThe summer transfer window is set to reopen on June 9, with EFL clubs already assessing potential targets.
The EFL have also said they remain fully committed to welcoming back all supporters to stadiums for the start of the 2021/22 season.
Chief executive Trevor Birch says that a ‘hybrid’ streaming model is also being considered should full capacity crowds not be allowed.
Here are the big stories from around the Stadium of Light and League One as Sunderland prepare for a huge summer:
Sunderland AFC transfer news LIVE (June 8)
Key Events
- The summer transfer window officially opens tomorrow - with Sunderland looking to make several new signings.
- Grant Leadbitter has spoken exclusively to the Echo about his second spell at the Stadium of Light.
- Lee Johnson’s side will play their first pre-season friendly against Spennymoor Town on Saturday, July 3.
Former Sunderland defender signs for Blackpool
On signing for Blackpool, Reece James said:
“I’m absolutely delighted. As soon as I knew there was a bit of interest, it was something that I really wanted to follow up and jump at. Playing in the Championship was something that I’d set out to do following what had happened in the season, so it was a massive pull to come here and play in the Championship.
“In the two games that I played against Blackpool, I knew exactly what they were like. They were organised, defensively solid, very good on the ball and obviously very lethal in the attacking third. Even from the games that I’ve watched from afar, with the play-offs and the play-off final, it was something that I really wanted to be a part of.”
Neil Critchley added:
“Reece arrives here with good, Championship experience and on the back of a fantastic couple of seasons with Doncaster Rovers. He’s somebody that I’ve always been impressed with, going back to his time with Manchester United when he was younger.
“From my conversations with him, I know how much of a top professional he is. He’ll bring good experience to the group and can play in a number of different positions, which will be invaluable to us.
“I’d like to welcome him to Blackpool and look forward to seeing him pull on a tangerine shirt.”
Grant Leadbitter interview
Our Sunderland writer Phil Smith recently spoke to Grant Leadbitter about his second spell at the club.
Pre-season details
Sunderland revealed their first pre-season opponents last week.
The Black Cats will face National League North side Spennymoor Town on Saturday, July 3 at 3pm as preparations for the 2021-22 season under Lee Johnson begin.
Sunderland have also stated that further details regarding pre-season friendlies will be released in due course.
Transfer window info
Sunderland are preparing for a big summer on the transfer front – but when can they begin to officially sign players?
Wolves have reportedly given the green light for rising star Dion Sanderson to leave for good this summer
According to Football Insider, the Premier League outfit are prepared to let the 21-year-old leave Molineux
The defender impressed while out on loan at Sunderland last campaign but missed out on the play-offs with an injury.
Sanderson has been linked with several other clubs including Sheffield United and Crystal Palace.
