Everything you need to know about Ian Poveda, the Colombian winger who is set to sign for Sunderland in the coming days.
Despite changes in the managerial department, Sunderland have been fairly quiet on the transfer front. The Black Cats have only signed Simon Moore and Alan Browne so far this summer as they look to gain promotion back into the Premier League.
However, this could be set to change in the coming weeks as Sunderland close in on another signing. The Black Cats look likely to bring in both Poveda and striker Alexandre Mendy in the coming days.
Below, Sunderland AFC News has highlighted all the information you need to know about Poveda ahead of his move to the Stadium of Light.
Read more: Who is Alexandre Mendy? Everything you need to know about the striker.
What is Ian Poveda’s age and height?
Poveda was born on February 9, 2000. At the time of writing, this makes him 24 years old. He also stands at 1.67 metres which is five foot six inches.
Where was he born?
Poveda was born in Southwark, London. However, both of his parents are Colombian which has allowed him to go on to play for the South American side internationally. He currently has two caps for the Colombian senior team.
What positions can Ian Poveda play?
Throughout his career, Poveda has mainly played as a right winger. However, he can also be utilised on the left wing.
What are Ian Poveda’s major feats?
Throughout his youth career, Poveda was seen as a major talent. This saw him start off in Chelsea’s academy before progressing to Arsenal, Barcelona, Brentford and then eventually Man City.
At the Citizens, he made one appearance, as he started in the Carabao Cup final semi-final second leg in the 2018/19 campaign against Burton. Man City eventually went on to win the cup.
Poveda was also selected on the bench for the Champions League fixture against Atalanta in the following season.
In 2020, he signed for Leeds and helped the club gain promotion to the Premier League. After appearing multiple times in the top flight, he was sent on loan to Blackburn and Blackpool but could not prevent the latter’s relegation in the 2022/23 campaign.
Last season, he was sent out on loan again, this time to Sheffield Wednesday where he became a star player as the Owls magically escaped the drop.
Career so far
| Club | Time spent |
| Man City | 2016-20 |
| Leeds United | 2020-24 |
| Blackburn Rovers | 2021-22 |
| Blackpool | 2022-23 |
| Sheffield Wednesday | 2024 |
What are Ian Poveda’s stats?
According to Fbref, Poveda is excellent in multiple areas. His best ability is his dribbling. Per 90 minutes, he is performing 3.15 successful take-ons and 5.16 progressive carries. On top of this, he is making 3.52 touches in the opposition’s box.
Poveda is also extremely creative. Per game, he is averaging, 4.03 shot-creating actions with an expected xAG of 0.33.
In total, his npxG and xAG adds up to 0.38 making it one of the highest amongst midfielders. The winger is also not afraid to shoot, averaging at 1.26 shots per game.
Will Ian Poveda sign for Sunderland?
It looks very likely that Poveda will sign for Sunderland. The winger was first linked to the Black Cats earlier in the summer window. Now, it seems like they will come to fruition.
Sky Sports journalist Keith Downie confirmed that Poveda has undergone a medical and is likely to officially sign soon.
How much will he cost Sunderland?
Sunderland will not have to pay a penny in transfer fees for Poveda. This is because he is set to sign as a free agent after he was released from Leeds this summer.
How long will Ian Poveda’s contract be at Sunderland?
Poveda is set to sign a four-year contract at the Black Cats.