Alious
Sunderland’s rising star Trai Hume has emerged as a top transfer target for Premier League rivals Wolves and Everton, following a breakout campaign that helped the Black Cats secure promotion — but prising him away won’t be easy.
The 23-year-old Northern Ireland international has gone from strength to strength since joining from Linfield in January 2022. This past season, he cemented his place as a standout performer at the Stadium of Light, playing a pivotal role in Sunderland’s successful push back to the top flight. His impressive form earned him both the club’s Player of the Year and Players’ Player of the Year awards — accolades that have only intensified interest from suitors in England and abroad.
According to Sky Sports News, Wolves and Everton are among several clubs keeping tabs on the dynamic right-back, with La Liga sides also watching closely. However, there’s a major hurdle that could prevent any immediate move: Hume remains under a long-term contract until 2027, and Sunderland also possess the option to extend it by another year. That contractual security puts the newly promoted side in a commanding position, with zero urgency to offload one of their most prized assets.
While no formal valuation has been reported, it’s expected Sunderland would demand a hefty fee to even consider letting Hume go — especially now that they’re preparing to compete in the Premier League. His consistent performances and defensive reliability make him central to head coach Régis Le Bris’ plans as the club looks to establish itself in the top tier.
If Sunderland had failed to secure promotion, Hume’s exit might have been far more likely, with the defender clearly showing the quality to compete at a higher level. But the current scenario shifts the power firmly in Sunderland’s favour. With Wolves and Everton likely to be direct competitors in the bottom half of the Premier League next season, Sunderland are unlikely to strengthen a rival unless a truly irresistible bid is made.
Furthermore, Hume is not thought to be pushing for a move. With Premier League football now guaranteed at Sunderland, the appeal of joining mid-table or relegation-threatened sides may not be strong enough to force a transfer.
Though every player has a price, Sunderland’s focus this summer will be on strengthening — not selling. The club is expected to invest in depth and quality to complement its core players and give itself the best shot at top-flight survival. While interest in Hume is understandable and likely to persist, any major departures from the squad appear improbable this summer unless Sunderland’s fortunes dramatically change over the next 12 months.
Alious
