Premier League bound. Sunderland are preparing to offer Bournemouth loan star Chris Mepham a permanent contract after he played a key role in their promotion campaign. The seasoned Wales international played a key role in the Black Cats’ promotion to the Premier League, and despite being left out of the play-off semi-finals, he returned to Wembley Stadium as an early replacement for injured Luke O’Nien to help defeat Sheffield United.
The 27-year-old has been an important player in Wearside, and according to Sportsboom, Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris wants to take Mepham on a free transfer when his current deal expires on June 30.
Mepham, who has 48 caps for his country, appeared 40 times for the Black Cats last season and impressed at the heart of the club’s strong defense.
Mepham enjoyed his experience at the Stadium of Light so much that he wants to stay there permanently.
He signed for Bournemouth for £12 million in January 2019 and has spent six seasons at the Vitality Stadium.
However, despite being a consistent first-team starter in previous years, he fell down the pecking order as a serious knee injury curtailed his possibilities.
And when a loan transfer to Sunderland was offered, the defender jumped at the chance to restart his career with consistent playing time.
He notably gained promotion to the Premier League with the Cherries in 2021-22, and his victory with the Black Cats last season was his second promotion.
The former Brentford player has also had a nine-year international career for Wales, appearing at the postponed UEFA Euro 2020 as well as the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
The only stumbling block might be if the Cherries activate an option to extend Mepham’s contract, which includes an additional year option.
Meanwhile, Sunderland goalkeeper Anthony Patterson joined a Foundation of Light goalkeeper-only training session at the Academy of Light.
Young shot-stoppers from the Foundation’s Player Development Centre and Emerging Talent Centre participated in a series of goalkeeping-focused training activities.
The young goalkeepers had a nice surprise when the Black Cats’ number one turned up to offer his support.
Patterson watched on, encouraging and supporting the young goalkeepers, answering questions based on his experience, and providing guidance.
After the training session, the Sunderland star lingered behind to sign autographs and pose for photos.
“Funnily enough, one of the coaches here used to take me for a session just like this,” Patterson said during the visit. “It’s fantastic to see so many young goalkeepers of various ages. It’s fantastic to see the interest in goalkeeping.”
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