Sunderland AFC should push to sign Chelsea man and Southampton attacker as soon as next week

Even though the Black Cats’ existing first team players have performed well in the 2024–25 season, they could still use some reinforcements in January. They might absolutely look at improving a few areas before the January transfer window ends, and an infusion of experience could make all the difference in the promotion chase.

In order to make place for others, they might potentially let go of some players during the current window. It will be interesting to see how much owner Kyril Louis-Dreyfus is prepared to pay. We’ve highlighted two players below that the Wearside team ought to look into signing as soon as possible.

Harvey Vale of Chelsea is a very flexible player who might be a great asset at the Stadium of Light. With players like Ian Poveda, Tommy Watson, and Romaine Mundle missing time due to injuries this season, the wing area might use some reinforcements. Since Jack Clarke has also left the team, hiring Vale on a long-term basis might give them an additional alternative in this area if needed.

While the Chelsea academy product has excelled in central and attacking midfield during his time at Stamford Bridge, Vale can also play left-back, providing helpful backup for Dennis Cirkin and Aji Alese, who have both struggled with injuries on Wearside. Even though he is only 21, a long-term contract might help the Black Cats turn a healthy profit in the future, and he would undoubtedly match the type of player that Louis-Dreyfus and Kristjaan Speakman have been hiring recently.

His prior EFL experience at Bristol Rovers, his former loan club, could help him if he moves down the football hierarchy, and Sunderland will probably be a desirable destination given the experiences of players like Chris Rigg, Jobe Bellingham, and Clarke. Journalist Ben Jacobs reports that the Stadium of Light team is among several clubs interested in Vale, suggesting a move may not be too far off.

Read more on sportupdates.co.uk