Brighton insider delivers interesting and exciting verdict for Sunderland fans on Simon Adringra swoop
After reaching an agreement with Brighton & Hove Albion to acquire Simon Adingra, Sunderland is very close to
making their sixth summer acquisition.
After the two clubs agreed on a sum of around £20 million, Adingra, who was a target for the Black Cats during the
January transfer window, landed on Wearside yesterday.
So what will Adingra bring to Wearside and why are Brighton happy to sanction his departure? To find out we spoke to Sussex World correspondent Derren Howard, who has followed the 23-year-old’s progress closely…
First of all, what kind of player is Simon Adingra?
and has a nice touch. When given the opportunity, Adingra’s finishing is also quite accurate, and he contributes a
good number of assists. While praising his attacking play last season, head coach Fabian Hurzeler made hints that
Adingra needed to focus on his aggressiveness and defensive play. Sunderland is acquiring a very talented player
who has Premier League experience at the age of 23, but his greatest years are yet to come.
His form looks to have declined a little last season – why do you think that is and why are Brighton happy to sell him?
“His best season for Brighton was in 2023-24 under former manager Roberto De Zerbi. Albion had numerous
injuries that campaign and Adingra really stepped up and became a key player for the Italian. He struggled to
replicate that form last term as new boss Fabian Hurzeler had a fully fit Kaoru Mitoma, who pretty much nailed
down the left wing slot. Adingra can play on the right as well but former Newcastle man Yankuba Minteh was the
preferred option.
What’s the view from the Brighton end? Surprised, disappointed, pleased?
“A lot of people at Brighton think that Adingra’s sale means Kaoru Mitoma will stay, and the fans are thrilled about
that.” The Japan international winger’s summer vacation has been the subject of much conjecture, with Bayern
Munich being one possible destination. According to a report last week, new contract negotiations are reportedly in
progress, and Mitoma has now expressed his desire to stay. Hopefully, Adingra will be given consistent playing time
at Sunderland, and if Mitoma stays, Tommy Watson might replace Adingra as his backup.
“For a guy who wasn’t likely to be a regular next season, I think £18 million is smart business. In 2022, Brighton
acquired Adingra from Danish team Nordsjaelland for approximately £8 million. He enjoyed a fantastic season with
Union SG on loan in Belgium, scoring 15 goals and dishing out 14 assists. I believe these two deals are appropriate
for the clubs and players right now, and Brighton paid almost £10 million to bring Watson in the opposite direction.
In contrast to Sunderland, who need someone with some top flight experience who can start straight away, Brighton
may have more time to wait for Watson as he adjusts to the Premier League.
Do you think is a good signing for a newly promoted side?
“Adingra could undoubtedly be a fantastic addition to Sunderland’s roster. He has every chance to score ten goals or
more in the Premier League the next season. At 23, he has the ability to get even better under Regis Le Bris, and
Sunderland needed an attacker with Premier League experience. I believe Sunderland has acquired a talented player,
and I wish him luck.
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