Sunderland are poised to strengthen their squad with a double transfer move for Leicester City winger Abdul Fatawu and Red Bull Salzburg youngster Adam Daghim, according to an exclusive report by the Sunderland Echo.
This development signals an ambitious push by the Black Cats following their stunning 3-0 Premier League victory over West Ham United on August 16. As the transfer window deadline approaches on September 1, Sunderland are looking to solidify their top-flight return.
Sunderland are unlikely to pursue a move for Leicester winger Abdul Fatawu after exploring a deal for the Ghana international. Sunderland are now looking at attacking alternatives and are eyeing a move for versatile Red Bull Salzburg forward Adam Daghim. #SAFC #LCFC #rbsalzburg pic.twitter.com/0xCmfDKbro
— Pete O'Rourke (@SportsPeteO) August 20, 2025
Transfer Details and Targets
The Sunderland Echo reveals that Sunderland have opened talks with Leicester City for 21-year-old Ghanaian winger Abdul Fatawu, valued at £30 million after an impressive 2024/25 Championship season with 12 goals and 8 assists.
The report cites Fabrizio Romano’s confirmation from August 19, aligning with his earlier tease of a “top target”, indicating advanced negotiations. Leicester, recently promoted, are reluctant to sell but may consider a loan with an obligation to buy, given Fatawu’s desire for regular first-team football.
Simultaneously, Sunderland are pursuing 19-year-old Moroccan forward Adam Daghim from Red Bull Salzburg, with a proposed £12 million deal including add-ons. Daghim, who scored 9 goals in 20 appearances for Salzburg’s youth and reserve teams last season, is seen as a long-term investment.
The Echo notes that Régis Le Bris views Daghim as a “future star” to complement the attacking flair of Simon Adingra and Chemsdine Talbi, who starred against West Ham.
Context and Motivation
Sunderland’s proactive approach follows their £60 million summer spend on 11 signings, including Granit Xhaka (£15 million) and Omar Alderete (£10 million).
The Echo highlights Le Bris’s intent to avoid a repeat of the 2016/17 relegation, with these signings aimed at securing a mid-table finish.
Challenges and Opportunities
Leicester’s £30 million valuation for Fatawu poses a financial hurdle, with Sunderland’s owners likely to fund it via player sales or loans, per the Echo.
Daghim’s £12 million fee is more manageable, but Salzburg’s reluctance to lose a prospect could complicate matters. The dual signings would bolster Sunderland’s attack—Fatawu’s 2.3 dribbles per game (WhoScored) and Daghim’s potential synergy with Adingra could transform their flanks.
