Sunderland fans want Chris Mepham transfer now after new announcement
Sunderland are planning for a significant summer as they return to the Premier League after an eight-year absence.
The Black Cats already have one signing through the door in Enzo Le Fee, who has officially signed from AS Roma for a club-record fee.
There are also a wealth of players departing the Stadium of Light, including loan star Chris Mepham.
As Mepham returns to AFC Bournemouth, the Wearside faithful have been saying their goodbyes.
Mepham departs Sunderland after Premier League promotion
Mepham has enjoyed a phenomenal season at the Stadium of Light, having joined the Wearside club last summer.
The centre-back added much-needed leadership and experience in the hub of Regis Le Bris’ defence, providing competition for Luke O’Nien and Dan Ballard.
As has been a feature of his stint in the North East, Ballard was missing for large periods of the season through injury.
Therefore, Mepham was needed on a regular basis and made a total of 38 Championship appearances, including 37 starts.
| Chris Mepham’s 2024/25 Championship statistics | Total |
| Appearances (starts) | 38 (37) |
| Goals | 1 |
| Touches | 65.7 |
| Accurate passes | 45.2 (87%) |
| Clean sheets | 11 |
| Tackles per game | 1.4 |
The 27-year-old performed admirably throughout the campaign and received constant plaudits from Sunderland supporters.
Although he lost his place at the end of the season, Mepham came on immediately in the play-off final and steered the Black Cats to victory.
As he leaves the Stadium of Light, supporters have been thanking him for his contributions to the North East outfit.
The Black Cats must prioritise Mepham signing
Considering the impact Mepham has made on Wearside, it feels like a no-brainer to bring him back to the Stadium of Light.
The Welsh international’s contract is due to expire this summer, meaning he will be available on a free transfer.
With Bournemouth unlikely to offer the defender a new deal, the Black Cats should pounce on the chance to sign him for nothing.
Sunderland face competition from Sheffield United to sign Mepham, but if it were a two-horse race, surely there would only be one winner.
The centre-back has spoken of his admiration for the North East club, and he has to be re-signed.