Transfer news: Sunderland chief confirms loan move as England youth international departs

Sunderland defender Zak Johnson has joined Dundalk in Ireland on loan after returning from Hartlepool United earlier this season.

The 19-year-old initially joined Pools on a one-month loan agreement in September, before the deal was extended until January. Johnson made 12 appearances during his spell at the Suit Direct Stadium, after being part of Sunderland's first-team squad for their pre-season US tour. He also started Sunderland's EFL Cup game against Crewe in August.

However, Johnson will now join Dundalk on loan for the remainder of the 2023-24 season. Johnson captained England’s under-18s in the summer and has made a small number of appearances for Sunderland’s first-team in the EFL Trophy and the Carabao Cup in recent seasons.

The teenager, though, is relishing the opportunity to gain regular first-team minutes with Dundalk as he looks to continue his development.

“When Sunderland agreed that I should go and get some minutes elsewhere, I set up a Zoom call with the gaffer here and Brian Gartland and I was hooked straight way,” said Johnson after concluding the move.

“I know for my development that I need to play first-team football and I think this will be a great opportunity for me to take a big step forward in my career.”

Sunderland's academy manager Robin Nicholls said: “This is an exciting move for Zak and gives him the chance to challenge himself at a good level of football following a year in which he has experienced international football as well as playing in the National League for Hartlepool, the EFL Cup for our first team, and a variety of competitions with our U21s.

"Our discussions with Dundalk FC have been very positive and they delivered excellently on the role Zak would play in their system. It is a good test for Zak to operate in a team who have high ambitions.”

“Zak has had first-team experience already this season with Hartlepool and he captained England U18s last summer which is a great achievement considering the wealth of talent at underage level,” said Dundalk FC head coach Stephen O’Donnell.

“Physically, he is a big specimen and he has a good personality and we are looking forward to having him in the group.”