(Credit: Imago)
(Credit: Imago)
Transfers

Kyril Louis-Dreyfus and Jobe Bellingham react as Sunderland exit announced

Jack Dawson
Jack Dawson

Correspondent AUTHORITY Football journalist with experience at the Edinburgh Evening News and GRV Media; Masters graduate from the University of Derby. FOCUS Scottish Premiership coverage with specialist knowledge of Rangers, Celtic, Hearts, Aberdeen, and Motherwell. THE INSIGHT Jack utilises a network of club and industry contacts across the Scottish Premiership to deliver verified, high-speed reporting. He provides the tactical and transfer insight behind the headlines to ensure fans get the full story as it happens.

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Sunderland’s promotion to the Premier League is likely to cause multiple changes to the Black Cats’ squad this summer.

With the transfer window now open, Regis Le Bris’ side have already been linked to Jordan Henderson.

However, departures are also expected, with rumours surrounding Jobe Bellingham’s future refusing to die down despite promotion.

Now, Sunderland have announced that numerous players have left the Stadium of Light in preparation for their Premier League campaign. 

Jobe Bellingham Sunderland
Bellingham could also leave Sunderland this summer (Credit: Imago)

Bellingham and Louis-Dreyfus react to Chris Mepham departure 

One of the key figures to Sunderland’s promotion campaign was Chris Mepham. 

The Welsh international joined the Black Cats on a season-long loan last summer and played 40 Championship matches. 

Now, Mepham has returned to his parent club, Bournemouth and could end up playing against the Black Cats next year. 

Chris Mepham at Sunderland
Appearances40
Goals 1
Assists0
Clean Sheets 13
Mepham was a crucial part of Sunderland's promotion side

As a result of his departure, Sunderland posted an image of the defender on Instagram (4 June) with him lifting the play-off trophy. 

The caption stated: “Promotion winners. Thank you for your contributions, lads!”

As a result, both Bellingham and Kyril Louis-Dreyfus have reacted to the post with a like. 

Sunderland need to upgrade their backline this summer 

One of the most important areas that needs strengthening this summer is Sunderland’s backline. 

If the Black Cats are to stand any chance of staying in the Premier League, then they must have a defence that is capable of withstanding flurries of attacks from top opposition. 

As it stands, it is doubtful that Le Bris’ defence could achieve this, and the departure of Mepham only weakens their position. 

On top of this Trai Hume has been linked to Wolves, which would further damage Sunderland’s survival aspirations if he leaves.

Hopefully, Le Bris has a list of top targets in mind for the backline, with at least two top new defenders needed.

Cedric Kipre has recently been linked to Sunderland, and his addition to the squad would no doubt help reinforce the Black Cats' defence.

Jobe Bellingham
Chris Mepham
Kyril Louis-Dreyfus
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