Sunderland’s transfer approach under Kristjaan Speakman, and their results of late especially, have been heavily praised.
Kristjaan Speakman has certainly faced his share of criticism at Sunderland, which at times has been warranted.
Little over a year ago he made what proved to be three poor signings in Nazariy Rusyn, Luis Hemir, and Mason Burstow, at a time when Sunderland desperately needed some quality in attack.
But last season’s struggles have quickly been forgotten. Speakman played his part in Sunderland appointing Regis Le Bris and he’s pulled off some impressive transfer deals.
Romaine Mundle is starting to shine following his January arrival. Wilson Isidor is proving to be a huge hit with the fans, and fellow loan signing Chris Mepham is a rock at the back for the Black Cats.
And later in November, two of Speakman’s former Sunderland students are set to face off in what is a huge clash in the Premier League.
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Amad Diallo set to face former Sunderland teammate Jack Clarke in Premier League clash
Amad Diallo is still someone who Sunderland fans speak of and reminisce about.
The Ivorian is now impressing for Manchester United following his impressive 2022/23 season at the Stadium of Light where he scored 14 goals as the Black Cats made the Championship play-offs.
Jack Clarke also impressed that season. He bagged nine goals and made 12 assists, then earning a big money move to Ipswich Town last summer.
Following the conclusion of the November international break, Ipswich Town host Manchester United in the Premier League, and it’s a momentous occasion with it being Ruben Amorim’s first game in charge of the Red Devils.
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The three Sunderland players next in line to play Premier League football
Diallo’s current form for United shows that Speakman has an eye for a loan deal, as we’ve also seen with Mepham and Isidor this season.
And Clarke’s trajectory fits in with the overall aim of Speakman and Sunderland: buying young players for small fees, developing them, and selling them on for a huge profit.
Next up for Sunderland, it looks like academy product Chris Rigg will play in the Premier League, if not in a top flight somewhere in Europe, and it’ll be another huge payday for the Black Cats.
Elsewhere, Jobe Bellingham has strong transfer interest right now and could seal a move in 2025, perhaps along with Anthony Patterson who is wanted by Manchester United and other clubs.
Sunderland certainly boast a first-team squad full of potential right now.