Sunderland have secured the services of experienced Mozambican defender Reinildo Mandava, marking another significant addition to their summer transfer window activity.
Reinildo Agrees Two-Year Deal after Leaving Atlético Madrid
Renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed the agreement on Sunday, stating: “Reinildo to Sunderland, here we go! Two year deal done for the left back set to join from Atlético Madrid.” The 31-year-old arrives at the Stadium of Light as a free agent following the expiration of his contract with the Spanish club.
Reinildo, who signed for Atlético Madrid from Lille in 2022, made a total of 74 appearances for the La Liga side. Though he featured earlier this year at the Club World Cup, the left-back found his opportunities limited in the latter stages of the season and has opted for a fresh challenge in the Premier League.
Sunderland Strikes Balance Between Youth and Experience
The signing of Reinildo follows Sunderland’s recent high-profile acquisition of Habib Diarra from Strasbourg in a club-record £30 million deal. While Diarra brings youthful energy and promise to the midfield, Reinildo adds seasoned composure and depth to the defensive ranks.
Romano emphasised the strategic balance in Sunderland’s approach, writing: “After young investment on Diarra, Sunderland want to get right balance in terms of experience. Ambitious project with one more important addition.”
Under the leadership of head coach Régis Le Bris, owner Kyril Louis-Dreyfus, and incoming director of football Florent Ghisolfi, the club’s transfer activity reflects an ambitious plan to establish itself in the Premier League. Sunderland are also keeping tabs on players such as Armand Laurienté and Marcin Bulka as part of this ongoing recruitment strategy.
Pre-Season Schedule Takes Shape Ahead of Premier League Return
Sunderland’s pre-season preparations are also gaining momentum with the confirmation of two final warm-up fixtures. The club will host Spanish side Rayo Vallecano at the Stadium of Light on Sunday, August 10, with kick-off scheduled for 4:30 pm.
Just a day earlier, on Saturday, August 9, the Black Cats will travel to Germany to face Bundesliga club FC Augsburg at the WWK Arena. Augsburg concluded last season in 12th place.
These friendlies follow Sunderland’s traditional pre-season double-header against Gateshead and South Shields, and players are set to report for pre-season testing at the Academy of Light on July 3. Full ticketing details for the Augsburg and Rayo Vallecano matches will be released in the coming days.
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