Alious
After eight long years away, Sunderland have finally reclaimed their place in the Premier League, and the excitement surrounding their return couldn’t be higher. Regis Le Bris’ men stunned Sheffield United in dramatic fashion at Wembley, securing a 2-1 win thanks to a stoppage-time strike from Tommy Watson, turning what looked like a looming defeat into a moment of triumph.
As the Black Cats prepare for the massive challenge of top-flight football, an ambitious summer of transfers is in sight. One confirmed deal is the permanent signing of Enzo Le Fée, whose impressive loan spell played a major role in Sunderland’s promotion. While he didn’t score or assist in the final, his two assists across the semi-final legs against Coventry showcased his class and impact.
Sunderland will now activate the £20 million obligation-to-buy clause, a justifiable price given Le Fée’s Ligue 1 pedigree, having tallied seven goals and 14 assists across 132 appearances for Lorient. At 25, he brings top-tier experience and composure to a squad that is otherwise youthful and largely untested at Premier League level.
However, to further stabilise their return and avoid becoming the next promoted team to drop straight back down — a fate that has befallen the last six promoted sides — Sunderland could go one better. Reports from Football Insider suggest that a stunning move to bring Jordan Henderson back to his boyhood club is being considered, and it’s a potential signing that could rival Le Fée in excitement and impact.
Henderson, who once captained Liverpool to Premier League and Champions League glory, has seen his career stall slightly during stints in Saudi Arabia and more recently at Ajax. But at 34, his wealth of experience could be exactly what Sunderland need. Former manager Jürgen Klopp once called him “incredible,” and his 2019/20 Footballer of the Year accolade proves he still has plenty to offer.
Adding Henderson’s leadership and calm presence could be a game-changer, providing balance to Sunderland’s energetic midfield trio of Jobe Bellingham, Chris Rigg, and Enzo Le Fée. For club owner Kyril Louis-Dreyfus, a homecoming for Henderson would mark a powerful statement of intent — a symbol of the club’s ambition and belief in Premier League survival.
If Henderson returns and performs near his best, this could be viewed as a masterstroke — potentially even more valuable than the acquisition of Le Fée. Sunderland’s new era could well be defined by a blend of youthful flair and seasoned leadership, with Henderson anchoring their journey into the top tier once again.
Alious
