Academy of Light

2,226 Sunderland fans deliver 83 per cent majority verdict on Kristjaan Speakman transfer decision

10/07/2024 Raymond 0

Sunderland fans have overwhelmingly endorsed Kristjaan Speakman and Stuart Harvey’s pursuit of free agent Alan Browne. With the midfielder’s availability following his departure from Preston North End, Sunderland is actively pursuing him without a transfer fee. Reports indicate Browne is undergoing a medical at the Academy of Light, with Sunderland eager to secure his signature ahead of Championship rivals and clubs from Turkey. The response from fans has been notably positive, with 83.2% of respondents in a poll supporting Browne’s potential arrival. On social media, supporters highlighted his experience and potential to contribute to the team’s development, particularly in mentoring younger players.

Sunderland hand trial to highly-rated 17-year-old – Manchester United also interested in transfer

07/07/2024 Raymond 0

A highly-regarded young talent has been given the opportunity to trial at Sunderland’s Academy of Light. Goalkeeper Robert Cook has joined Sunderland and is currently undergoing a trial at their academy, as reported by The Echo. Following the departures of Alex Bass to Notts County and Nathan Bishop to Wycombe Wanderers, Sunderland signed Simon Moore to provide cover and competition for Anthony Patterson. During a training session at the Academy of Light, Patterson and Moore were joined by England youth international Matty Young. Young is expected to participate in the pre-season before going out on loan again next season. The academy also includes Adam Richardson, Dan Cameron, and Kelechi Chibueze. Recently, Cook was invited to train at the Academy of Light, working alongside Cameron, Chibueze, and under-18 goalkeeper Ben Metcalf. It is anticipated that the 17-year-old Cook will trial with other clubs over the summer, including Manchester United, before making a decision about his future.

Transfer news: Sunderland starlet wanted by EFL club ahead of Premier League 2 play-off final

26/05/2024 Raymond 0

On Sunday afternoon, Sunderland’s under-21 team will face Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League 2 play-off final in London, amidst ongoing transfer speculation involving some of their promising talents. Graeme Murty’s squad had a commendable season, securing ten victories and finishing seventh in the league standings, progressing to the play-off final with impressive performances against West Ham and Reading.

Alan Nixon reported that Sunderland’s left-back Oliver Bainbridge is attracting interest from Bradford City, while Halifax is interested in midfielder Caden Kelly on loan for the summer. However, Halifax’s manager, Chris Millington, recently denied any interest in Kelly, emphasizing their focus on developing their own young players.

Sunderland’s recent retained list revealed that Kelly will remain at the Academy of Light next season after the club triggered an option in his contract. Kelly, a former Manchester City player, has been pivotal in Sunderland’s successful under-21 campaign, contributing significantly to their performance as they prepare for the crucial match against Tottenham Hotspur.

Transfer gossip: Sunderland line up England youth player to replace £20m-rated star

01/04/2024 Raymond 0

Amid preparations for the Championship’s decisive phase, Sunderland finds itself amidst a whirlwind of transfer news and speculations. The club is already scouting for a successor to Anthony Patterson in anticipation of heightened interest during the summer transfer window. Patterson, a homegrown talent, emerged as a pivotal figure during Sunderland’s League One campaign, playing a key role in their promotion via the playoffs. Maintaining his status as Sunderland’s primary goalkeeper under various managerial regimes, Patterson’s consistent performances have attracted significant attention, with reports indicating Sunderland’s valuation of £20 million for the Academy of Light graduate. However, Sunderland is now exploring alternatives and has reportedly set its sights on Wigan Athletic’s Sam Tickle.