Sunderland transfer turmoil: Abdullahi loan stalls as late exit looms, Rusyn close to Poland switch – round-up
Sunderland’s transfer business faces late drama on deadline day as two potential departures dominate the headlines.
Ahmed Abdullahi’s proposed loan move to Angers has been thrown into doubt, with French outlet *L’Équipe* reporting that financial restrictions imposed by the DNCG are preventing the deal from being finalised.
Talks had been advanced, but the setback now forces Sunderland to explore alternative destinations for the 20-year-old forward, who has struggled to make an impact at the Stadium of Light since joining from Bodo/Glimt in 2023.
Head coach Régis Le Bris confirmed Abdullahi still has other options on the table and is expected to leave on loan before the 7pm deadline, saying: *“For outs, probably we’ll have an option for Ahmed, so we expect him to leave on loan. For the others, it’s still the same principle.”*
Meanwhile, Ukrainian striker Nazary Rusyn is on the verge of completing a loan switch to Polish club Arka Gdynia. The newly promoted Ekstraklasa side are poised to secure his services until the end of the season. Rusyn, who joined under Tony Mowbray, made 32 appearances for Sunderland and spent part of last season at Hajduk Split.
Le Bris admitted the transfer window could go right down to the wire: *“The last couple of days are always a crazy period. Every club waits until the last minute. We’ll work until the end to find the best solution.”*
Elsewhere, Sunderland remain active in the market and could yet strengthen further before the deadline. Big-name summer signings including Granit Xhaka, Simon Adingra, Chemsdine Talbi and Robin Roefs have already boosted the squad, but another attacking addition is being pursued, with Ajax’s Brian Brobbey and Lutsharel Geertruida still linked.
On the outgoing front, Patrick Roberts is expected to seal a loan move to Birmingham City after falling behind in the pecking order. Other fringe players have attracted tentative interest from abroad, though Sunderland are mindful of maintaining depth for their Premier League campaign.
With multiple moving parts, Sunderland’s deadline day looks set to deliver a tense and unpredictable finale.