Florent Ghisolfi explains why Sunderland have signed Kevin Danso as Spurs confirm key loan clause
Sunderland have completed the signing of Spurs defender Kevin Danso
Sunderland have confirmed the signing of Kevin Danso on an initial season-long loan.
Director of Football Florent Ghisfolfi, who signed Danso for Ligue 1 club RC Lens, said the defender would bring ‘strength and character’ to the squad for the season ahead. The Austria international is a Europa League winner with Spurs and brings significant top-level experience to the Sunderland squad, as well as increased competition for places in defensive positions.
“Kevin is a player I know very well from my time working with him at RC Lens,” Ghisolfi said. “He will bring strength, character and know-how to the squad, and vast experience of playing in domestic and European competitions. We’re thrilled to add him to the squad for a historic season in Sunderland AFC’s history.”
In a statement confirming the deal, Spurs have confirmed that an obligation-to-buy clause has been inserted into the deal dependent on performance. It’s understood that relates to Sunderland avoiding relegation, with the fee being in the region of £22 million. Sunderland will also pay a loan fee.
The statement from Spurs said: “Kevin Danso has joined Sunderland on loan for the remainder of the 2026/27 season.
“The deal also includes an obligation, subject to performance related conditions, to make the move to the Black Cats permanent next summer. Arriving initially on loan from Ligue 1 side RC Lens in February, 2025, the Austria international joined us permanently ahead of the following campaign and made 52 appearances in our colours, scoring once.”
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Speaking after the move was confirmed, Danso said he was excited to play his part in the project at Sunderland.
“I’m really happy to be here and I can’t wait to get started,” he said. “Sunderland is a big club with huge ambition, and I’m excited to be part of what we’re building this season.
“I know Florent well from our time together at Lens, so that was an important factor in my decision. I’m looking forward to working with him again, meeting my new team-mates and experiencing the atmosphere at the Stadium of Light.”
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