The tricky attacker joined Birmingham City on a season-long loan from Sunderland during deadline day
Patrick Roberts has expressed an emotional goodbye to Sunderland fans after sealing a loan move to Birmingham City on the transfer deadline day. The 28-year-old winger, who has been instrumental in the Black Cats’ return to the Premier League from League One, will join the Championship promotion contenders until the conclusion of the 2025-26 season. With his current contract expiring next summer and Sunderland unlikely to exercise their option to extend, Roberts could have played his final game at the Stadium of Light.
Roberts posted on X, “Good luck with the rest of the season, Mackems,” accompanied with a red heart. On Instagram, he expressed his joy at the move, writing, “Delighted to join @bcfc. I look forward to meeting you all at St Andrew’s.”
Roberts’ departure elicited strong reactions from both Sunderland teammates and supporters. Jack Clarke reacted with several goat emojis, indicating Roberts’ reputation as one of the finest. Trai Hume replied with two red hearts, while Romaine Mundle responded with an angel emoji. Aaron Connolly also expressed his support with a heart and raised hands emojis.
Fans also expressed gratitude and unhappiness with his departure, with one calling him a “legend” and another commenting, “Going to wake up from this nightmare eventually.” Sunderland’s sporting director, Kristjaan Speakman, praised Roberts’ contributions: “Patrick was a catalyst in the success of Sunderland over the past four years…” Patrick will always be able to call Sunderland home, and he will always be welcomed to the Stadium of Light.”
What is the latest transfer news after deadline day?
Despite the fact that the domestic transfer market officially closed last night, Sunderland are still looking to sign a handful of players who are not part of Régis Le Bris’ Premier League roster. Ian Poveda, Timothée Pembélé, Naz Rusyn, Abdoullah Ba, Jay Matete, and Joe Anderson are among those the club is looking for fresh possibilities for, with Sunderland open to both permanent and loan moves before the international window closes in the coming weeks.
There may also be movement for Leo Hjelde if the perfect loan opportunity occurs, with the defender receiving interest from clubs overseas. Furthermore, Sunderland is still looking into prospective loan deals for excellent young players Ahmed Abdullahi and Milan Aleksic in order to earn regular senior football this season. Abdullahi’s scheduled loan to French club Angers has been halted due to the DNCG’s financial constraints on the Ligue 1 team, although the 19-year-old forward is likely to have other choices.
With international markets still open across Europe and beyond, Sunderland’s recruitment and player care teams are working hard to get the best possible deals for players who are unlikely to feature extensively this season under Le Bris.
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