Sunderland dealt Chris Mepham blow amid fresh transfer twist
Sunderland must build a squad capable of competing in the Premier League if they are to survive at the first attempt.
With that in mind, AFC Bournemouth’s Chris Mepham is a player the Black Cats could look to acquire on a permanent basis.
Mepham spent last season on loan with the Wearsiders, playing an integral part in their promotion.
However, it seems the North East club will face a battle to sign the Welshman, with a familiar foe eyeing a move for the 27-year-old.
Championship side set to swoop for Bournemouth’s Chris Mepham
Mepham will be a player in demand this summer, with his contract on the South Coast set to expire.
Given that he will be available on a free transfer, it is unsurprising that news of his next move is already surfacing.
The centre-back played a key role in the hub of Sunderland’s defence this campaign, notching 40 appearances in the North East.
| Chris Mepham’s 2024/25 Championship statistics | Total |
| Appearances | 38 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Clean sheets | 11 |
| Interceptions | 0.9 |
| Tackles per game | 1.4 |
| Touches | 65.7 |
Towards the end of the season, Mepham had to settle for a place on the bench, but came on early in the play-off win over Sheffield United.
Indeed, it seems that Blades boss Chris Wilder liked what he saw as the Yorkshire club plot a move for Mepham, according to Alan Nixon via Patreon (1 June).
Nixon states that the Championship outfit are set to go for the defender again after failing to land him last summer.
However, the Wales international’s Premier League wages are likely to be a stumbling block for the Bramall Lane club.
Wilder is hoping to be backed by Sheffield United’s American owners after signing a new deal, but his future is uncertain.
Sunderland should prioritise Mepham deal
Although the Black Cats can now attract a higher-calibre player in the Premier League, they should still move for Mepham.
The centre-back’s influence at the Stadium of Light was obvious, and he provided an experienced head in a young side.
Given that the 27-year-old will be available on a free transfer, it feels like a move for Mepham is a no-brainer.
Of course, the Sunderland hierarchy may feel that they can do better, but they need numbers in the middle of the defence.
Having beaten Sheffield United to promotion, Sunderland now must beat them to Mepham.