Sunderland look set to wrap up their third signing of the summer this week.
Sunderland have so far picked up two free-agents in Simon Moore and Alan Browne under head coach Regis Le Bris.
The Black Cats have dramatically changed their transfer policy after a disastrous 2023/24 campaign, while they have failed significant pressure from fans to finally sign a proven goal-scorer.
The supporters now look set to finally get what they have wanted for over a year, with one ‘prolific’ striker scheduled for a medical this morning.
Alexandre Mendy set for permanent Sunderland switch
According to Roker Report, Alexandre Mendy arrived on Wearside yesterday and is set to undergo medical tests ahead of a permanent transfer from Caen.
It was reported last week that Sunderland had failed with their initial bid to sign the 30-year-old, but Mendy quickly made it clear that he was eager to move to the Championship, despite interest from Saudi Arabia.
It is unclear how much the Black Cats have agreed to pay to sign Mendy, but it looks like their second offer was successful as he closes in on a switch from Ligue 2.
The forward has already stated how excited he is to work under Le Bris, who has spent his entire coaching career in France before joining Sunderland.
Mendy said: “At the time Sunderland arrived, there was no more debate.
“It’s a sporting choice and I’m really looking forward to starting this new adventure. I know the club well, he told me about President Kyril Louis-Dreyfus, his values and convictions that are the ones I share. There is also coach Régis Le Bris, a very strong coach tactically, who can make me pass a milestone. It exudes serenity and natural strength.”
Avoiding any snags, Mendy looks set to become a Sunderland player in the coming days and could be available for next weekend’s friendly against Marseille.
Is the 30-year-old the striker that Sunderland have been crying out for?
The striker’s lack of pre-season training could prove to be an issue for Le Bris, who will have wanted him to be given time to gel with his teammates.
However, his age and experience will certainly help him in preparing for a season in English football.
While turning 31 years old next season, Mendy definitely seems like a very sensible signing for the Black Cats as they look to up their average age.
The Guinea-Bissau international finished as Ligue 2’s top scorer last season and arguably seems like one of the best attacking signings Sunderland could have made without paying millions for a No.9 already proven in the Championship.
Kristjaan Speakman looks to be recovering from his past mistakes and has brought a number of players into the squad who have massively exceeded expectations, so there is no reason why fans shouldn’t be getting excited about this signing.