Sunderland have overseen one of the most ambitious and dramatic summer windows in the club’s history, with sporting director Kristjaan Speakman at the heart of a £167.1million rebuild designed to establish the Black Cats in the Premier League.
In total, Sunderland have brought 15 players through the door, including major defensive, midfield and attacking reinforcements, while also completing 17 departures as part of a wide-ranging overhaul of Régis Le Bris’ squad. On top of that, the club have secured six key contract renewals, tying down several core players and the head coach to long-term deals.
The arrivals include established internationals, high-potential young talents and proven Premier League performers, reflecting Sunderland’s ambition to compete at the highest level. Alongside that, a number of notable exits have reshaped the squad significantly, as players left for Premier League rivals, Championship challengers and European clubs.
Speakman and his recruitment team have delivered one of the most active windows in English football, balancing investment in elite quality with a focus on sustainability, future value and youth development. From marquee signings and record deals to surprise departures and breakthrough contract extensions, this summer has transformed Sunderland’s short and long-term prospects – and there’s a lot to unpack.
In our full gallery, we break down every incoming transfer, every outgoing deal and every new contract agreed at the Stadium of Light during this record-breaking summer:
21. OUT: Trey Ogunsuyi
The young Sunderland attacker has joined Falkirk on a season-long loan. | Getty Images
22. OUT: Marc Guiu
Marc Guiu has returned to Chelsea. Following an approach by the Blues on Sunday, the club has reached an agreement for the 19-year-old striker to return to Stamford Bridge with immediate effect. Guiu made three appearances for Régis Le Bris’ side after moving to Wearside last month, scoring once in the Carabao Cup. Photo: George Wood
23. OUT: Jenson Seelt
Jenson Seelt has joined VfL Wolfsburg on loan for the 2025-26 season. The 22-year-old defender, who arrived on Wearside in June 2023, will spend the campaign in the Bundesliga. Seelt has made 21 appearances in all competitions for the Black Cats, including two in the Premier League this term. Photo: George Wood
24. OUT: Niall Huggins
Niall Huggins has joined Wycombe Wanderers on loan for the duration of the 2025-26 season. The 24-year-old defender links up with the Chairboys, who are currently managed by former Black Cats assistant, Mike Dodds. Huggins moved to Wearside in 2021 from Leeds United and has since made 29 appearances in red and white. Photo: Joe Giddens