Credit: Imago/ Hasan Karim

Josh Edwards

Thu 10 July 2025 8:51, UK

Sunderland are looking to add experience to their midfield this summer.

Regis Le Bris has already had his midfield options bolstered massively this summer, with the club-record arrival of Habib Diarra, closely followed by that of Noah Sadiki.

However, both are young, African midfielders who will miss games at Christmas due to AFCON, leaving the Black Cats in need of another midfielder.

Jordan Henderson has been linked, but recent reports suggest that the deal is no longer happening, with Valentin Rongier now emerging as an option.

Como set to battle Sunderland for Rongier signing

As good as the business has been so far from Sunderland, there is still a lack of experience, even after the signing of Reinildo.

With that in mind, a report from L’Equipe (9 July) states that the Black Cats are interested in a deal to sign Rongier from Marseille, with Como also keen.

At 30 years old, the Frenchman has a wealth of experience and is believed to be available for around £8.6million.

Typically operating as a central midfielder, Rongier has also shown his ability to play slightly deeper, as well as occasionally filling in at right-back.

Given the links to him, it would seem as though Sunderland will not be pursuing a deal for Henderson, given the number of midfield options they would have of this deal were to happen.

Sunderland need to add more experience

Youth is the reason Sunderland are back in the Premier League, but surviving in the top flight brings a completely different challenge, and experience will be crucial.

Rongier, after several seasons in the top flight in France, would provide that, though whether the Black Cats want to pay that fee for a 30-year-old remains to be seen.

Simon Adingra looks set to become the latest addition at the Stadium of Light, with several more expected.

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