Kristjaan Speakman reacts as Sunderland sanction third departure of the January transfer window

Sunderland have sanctioned their third departure of the January transfer window, with defender Joe Anderson completing a permanent exit from the club.

Anderson has joined League Two side Barrow for an undisclosed fee, having struggled to force his way into the first-team picture at Sunderland since his move from Everton in January 2023. The 24-year-old has signed an 18-month-deal.

Anderson was one of a number of Sunderland players who has trained away from the first-team group so far this season having been informed in the summer that he was not part of Régis Le Bris’s plans for the campaign. Sporting director Kristjaan Speakman praised his application during that time.

“Joe’s had a difficult period, predominantly training without the game exposure he requires, but his character and application have been exemplary,” Speakman said.

“This move provides a foundation for the next stage of his career and an opportunity to show his ability. We wish him the best of luck in this next chapter.”

Anderson’s departure follows Jay Matete’s permanent move to MK Dons, while Timothee Pembele has joined Le Havre on loan until the end of the campaign. Abdoullah Ba and Ian Poveda are still searching for new clubs.

Anderson said he was excited by the new opportunity.

“I’m absolutely delighted to get the move done,” he said.

From when I first heard about the interest to when I spoke to the Gaffer moved quite quickly and from the conversations we had I was set on coming here from the get-go. A big thing of why we [Sunderland] went up last year was the changing room, off the pitch and hopefully I can bring that here.

“On the pitch of course, I hope I can contribute but off the pitch I hope to bring a bit of seniority as well and I want to help the lads, even if it 1,2,3 % more to push up the table then that is what we need to do. It’s quite cliché to say but I would say I’m a modern day defender, I take pride in clean sheets and think it’s the best way to win football matches, but on the ball I like to bring a calmness and link the defence, midfield and attack.”

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Sunderland set to sanction loan move for youngster

Meanwhile, reports in Ukraine state that Sunderland are set to sanction a loan move for Timur Tutierov.

The Ukraine U21 international has enjoyed a brilliant year at the Academy of Light, and was regularly named in the senior matchday squad over the festive period. With opportunities at Premier League level unlikely for now, however, the Black Cats are believed to be ready to let the youngster depart and test himself at senior level.

Tutierov is said to be close to joining League One side Exeter City on loan until the end of the season. Gary Caldwell’s side are enjoying a strong campaign having been widely tipped to struggle, though they remain just three points above the drop zone at this stage.

Your next Sunderland read: Régis Le Bris explains Sunderland's quiet January transfer window so far and underlines club stance