Kieran Maguire makes exciting Sunderland transfer claim that fans will love
Sunderland were one of the headline stories of the summer window after they splurged an astonishing amount of money on players.
Reports suggest that the Black Cats spent north of £150million on players, with Habib Diarra a record signing at the Stadium of Light.
Indeed, that approach already appears to be paying off, given the phenomenal start that Regis Le Bris’ side has made.
Now, football finance expert Kieran Maguire has shared his encouraging thoughts regarding the January transfer window.
Sunderland in healthy position to spend in January if needed
Maguire praised Sunderland during the summer for their unique gesture to season ticket holders over 85.
Then, Maguire outlined Sunderland’s financial power in early June and was on the money as he predicted substantial spending on Wearside.
Enzo Le Fee became the Black Cats’ record signing for £19.3million, but that was then trumped by the £30m spent on Diarra.
- Sunderland’s spend: £162m
- Leeds United’s spend: £98m
- Burnley’s spend: £111m
While there has been a niggle of concern among supporters regarding the amount of money spent, the football money man shared his thoughts on what January could hold.
“I think Sunderland won’t put the club at risk,” Maguire said via the Roker Report’s ‘Haway The Podcast’ on 19 September.
“Yes, you’ve still got some leeway, and remember, there’s always an exit door in terms of sales at the club, so that has to be taken into consideration as well.
“People always focus on who’s coming in, but if you manage to shift players A off payroll and B profits at the same time, then that does have PSR implications.
“Do they have cash? I think they do. It’s just a combination of the additional moneys from the Premier League and the wealth of the owner, combined, that are real positives for Sunderland.”
Why would Kyril Louis-Dreyfus need to spend more money in January?
Sunderland will certainly assess their situation leading up to January, with December set to be a key month.
If the Black Cats are in a healthy position and clear of relegation, then they may not decide to go big again.
However, if they occupy the bottom three or are anywhere near, then that would surely force Louis-Dreyfus’ hand.
Furthermore, much has been made of the Africa Cup of Nations, and Le Bris will lose a raft of key players for the competition.
While Sunderland have a capable squad, there are concerns that the players who would have to fill in are not up to it.
In an ideal world, Louis-Dreyfus will want to avoid spending, but he will be prepared to do so if necessary.
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