Super Eagles' Nations Cup slayer set for Premier League transfer

Brighton & Hove Albion winger Simon Adingra is reportedly close to completing a permanent transfer to Sunderland.

According to The Athletic, the 23-year-old Ivory Coast international arrived in the North East for a medical on Wednesday, with the deal valued at up to €21 million upfront, plus €3 million in add-ons. 

If finalised, the wide attacker will become Sunderland’s sixth summer signing.

Adingra joined Brighton in 2022 and spent the 2023-24 season on loan at Union Saint-Gilloise. 

He has scored 12 goals and provided five assists in 73 appearances for the Seagulls, also playing a pivotal role in Ivory Coast’s AFCON 2023 triumph, setting up both goals in the 2-1 win over Nigeria. 

As the report suggests, Brighton are undergoing significant squad changes, with other forwards like Ibrahim Osman and Amario Cozier-Duberry moving on loan, and Evan Ferguson also linked with a departure. 

Brighton’s acquisition of Tommy Watson from Sunderland is said to have contributed to their comfort in selling Adingra, securing a substantial profit.

Sunderland, who return to the Premier League after an eight-year absence, face West Ham United on the opening weekend of top-flight games.