Premier League new boys Sunderland made a statement of intent on Tuesday as they announced their first signing of the summer.
It was a campaign to remember for Regis Le Bris and his Sunderland side, who sealed promotion to England’s top flight with a dramatic 2-1 win over Sheffield United in the Championship play-off final.
The Black Cats stand to make a record £220 million, according to BBC Sport, with much of that sum stemming from the Premier League’s latest £6.7 billion broadcast deal.
And on top of that, they have secured the services of French midfielder Enzo Le Fee, who will complete a club-record move in July following a successful six-month loan from AS Roma.
It is said his loan deal contained a £19.3 million obligation to make the move permanent if Sunderland were promoted.
Le Fee, who has signed a four-year deal with the club, played an integral role in their promotion-winning campaign, making 18 appearances in all competitions.Speaking after making his transfer permanent, Le Fee opened up on his desire to play in the Premier League.”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,” he told Sunderland’s official website.
“Together, we did it. From the moment I arrived, I have enjoyed my football, my team-mates and our supporters. We shared an incredible experience, and now we get to take the next step.”
The 25-year-old added: “There are greater challenges ahead, but we must face them together, and I can’t wait to play for Sunderland in the Premier League.”
Kristjaan Speakman, who is Sunderland’s sporting director, also revealed his delight at the move.
“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,” he said.
“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.”
What’s next for Sunderland this summer?
In other transfer-related news, Sunderland are planning to strengthen their side with the additions of Tommy Doyle and Wilfried Singo, according to TEAMtalk.
The report suggests Doyle, who made 26 appearances in all competitions for Wolves last season, could replace Jobe Bellingham as the brother of Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham continues to be linked with a move to Borussia Dortmund.
Monaco defender Wilfried Singo, meanwhile, is on the market for £15 million this summer.
