Bournemouth make major Chris Mepham call as Sunderland weigh up summer transfer decision

Bournemouth have issued a major update on the future of former Sunderland loanee Chris Mepham

Chris Mepham has been added to Bournemouth’s retained list for 2025/26 season.

It suggests that Bournemouth has opted to exercise their option to extend Mepham’s contract for another season, which was originally slated to expire at the end of this month. While Mepham is still largely anticipated to leave the club this summer after being on the margins of the first-team squad in recent seasons, the Cherries will now look to reclaim a price if the 27-year-old departs. It complicates a prospective deal not only for Sunderland, but for any of the clubs interested in signing the defender this summer, including Sheffield United, who have a longtime interest.

Mepham was a huge success on Wearside last season, making 40 appearances and helping the Black Cats win promotion back to the Premier League. In addition to his on-field performance, he became a very important presence in the dressing room, and both coaching staff and teammates complimented him for his influence.

Sunderland would therefore be willing to bring him back to the club next season, but they now have a difficult dilemma as to whether the deal represents the best value in the summer transfer market. Mepham will also have to make a huge decision as time goes on about what is the best move for him and his chances of receiving regular playing time, especially because head coach Régis Le Bris has previously chosen a defensive partnership of Dan Ballard and Luke O’Nien.

So, while a summer move remains a real possibility at this point, it is far from guaranteed, and both parties will carefully consider their choices in the coming weeks.

What Kristjaan Speakman said about signing Chris Mepham permanently for Sunderland last week

Sporting director Kristjaan Speakman was vague about the subject last week, stating that Sunderland would be interested in a summer transfer but also hinting that they were considering other alternatives.
“We’re looking at all the players and I’ve been consistent in saying I won’t talk about individuals, especially from other clubs,” according to Speakman.

“We’re looking at what the situation is [at Premier League level] and how we can remedy it. I believe that is the simplest way to describe it. Obviously, all of the guys who have been a part of our journey this year are involved in that talk. It’s about us attempting to find the correct balance.