Sunderland are edging closer to their first signing of the January transfer window after agreeing a fee with Leeds United for defender Leo Hjelde, according to journalist Mike McGrath.
It’s set to be a big few days at the Stadium of Light, with manager Michael Beale hoping to add a handful of names to his squad before the transfer window closes on Wednesday night. The Black Cats are targeting at least a play-off place this season, although recent form saw them slip down to ninth.
Saturday’s 3-1 win over Stoke City has seen them jump back up to seventh, easing the pressure on the manager somewhat. They are now just one point behind Coventry City in sixth, although the Sky Blues have played a game less, as have eighth-placed Hull City below them.
Supporters have been growing restless with the lack of transfer activity in recent weeks. This has been made worse by the continued speculation linking star man Jack Clarke with a move away from the club, with the winger attracting interest from both the Premier League and abroad.
Sporting director Kristjaan Speakman confirmed last week that he is keen to bring Manchester United winger Amad Diallo back to Wearside. There has been communication with the 20-time English champions and it is believed that the Ivory Coast international would be willing to make the temporary return.
It looks as if progress has been made elsewhere though, with Daily Telegraph reporter Mike McGrath confirming that a fee has been agreed with promotion rivals Leeds United for defender Leo Hjelde. The 20-year-old had been widely tipped to leave Elland Road this month as Daniel Farke looked to free up room in his squad. He has made just one league appearance this season, coming in the opening fixture of the campaign against Cardiff City.
Sunderland have agreed a fee with Leeds for Norway U21 defender Leo Hjelde. Deal for 20yr old in place with personal terms to be agreed before a permanent move to the Stadium Of Light #SAFC #LUFC @TeleFootball 🟥◽️🟥🐈⬛🐈⬛🐈⬛⚽️⚽️⚽️🇳🇴🇳🇴🇳🇴
— Mike McGrath (@mcgrathmike) January 29, 2024
It was initially believed that the Norway under-21 international would depart on a loan deal – similar to that which saw him join Rotherham United for the second half of last season – although it is now claimed that he will head to the North East on a permanent basis.
McGrath states that a deal is now in place, although personal terms are yet to be agreed.
Sunderland face a tough task this weekend when they take on North East rivals Middlesbrough at the Riverside Stadium. However, it could be a much-changed squad from the one that Beale had at his disposal last weekend.
Writer’s View
It’s going to be a nervy few days for Sunderland fans. Whilst the futures of Jack Clarke and Alex Pritchard remain up in the air for very different reasons, it’s incomings which are needed if they want to achieve a top six finish.
Hjelde is highly rated at Leeds United and it was expected that he would be given more of an opportunity at Elland Road this season. Circumstances have gone against him though, and a move to another of the Championship’s behemoth’s is a fantastic chance for him to kick-start his career.
Head of Writing
