Sunderland new signing announced, Kristjaan Speakman reacts
Sunderland have kicked off their summer transfer window with a club-record deal.
The Black Cats face a period of substantial recruitment as they prepare for Premier League football after an eight-year absence.
Promoted clubs in recent years have struggled to add top-flight quality to their ranks and have suffered instant relegation as a result, making Regis Le Bris’ latest addition all the more important.
Enzo Le Fée completes Sunderland move
Sunderland have announced the signing of midfielder Enzo Le Fée from AS Roma on a permanent basis, following an initial six-month loan spell at the Wearside club.
An obligation to buy estimated at around £19.3 million was inserted into the Frenchman’s loan deal, automatically activated if the Mackems achieved promotion to the Premier League.
The 25-year-old has penned a four-year contract at the Stadium of Light, keeping him at the club until 2029.
| Enzo Le Fée‘s 2024/25 Championship statistics | Total |
| Appearances | 18 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 3 |
Le Fée made 18 appearances after arriving in January, becoming an integral component in Le Bris’ team.
The midfielder shone during the play-offs, recording an assist in both games against Coventry City, playing a decisive role in Sunderland’s overall success.
Speaking on his signing via the club website, Le Fée stated: “I said before the Play-Off Final that my heart was in Sunderland – I wanted to stay, and this made it the most important game of my life. Together, we did it.
“From the moment I arrived, I have enjoyed my football, my teammates, and our supporters.
“We shared an incredible experience, and now we get to take the next step. There are greater challenges ahead, but we must face them together, and I can’t wait to play for Sunderland in the Premier League.”
Enzo Le Fée will play a key role in Sunderland’s fate next season
When the midfielder arrived at the Stadium of Light in January, many labelled Le Fée overqualified for Championship football.
His CV up until that point consisted of a strong footballing education with Lorient, before spells with Rennes and Roma.
Therefore, a drop to the English second-tier was quite unexpected but has turned out to be a well-calculated leap of faith.
Le Fée immediately stood out as one of the Black Cats’ most gifted operators, moulding the game around him and dictating the tempo throughout a 90-minute contest.
These traits can prove invaluable in the fast-paced Premier League, especially when Sunderland will be expected to suffer for large portions of their outings next season.
Having a calm head in the centre of the pitch is vital for taking opportunities when they come, something the Le Bris’ side will need to indulge in if they are to retain their top-flight status.
Signing a quality midfielder was a crucial task for Sunderland, as Jobe Bellingham appears set to leave the Stadium of Light.
At just 25, Le Fée already enjoys a wealth of experience, something that makes his transfer all the more worthwhile for the Mackems.
“In Enzo, we knew we were acquiring a very high-level player who could be influential in critical moments – the moments that change the outcome of games and seasons,” exclaimed Sporting Director Kristjaan Speakman via the club website.
“He’s been a big part of our success, so we’re delighted that he’s signing permanently and joining us in the Premier League.
“Above all else, he’s been a team player, and following our Play-Off Final victory, I think everyone could see exactly what the Club means to him.”