Sunderland winger Simon Adingra has been caught up in another shock move as Ajax have extended the Ivorian attack duo’s loan deal with Sunderland to the end of the 2026-27 season. The deal also has an option for Ajax to make the transfer permanent.
It has followed Adingra’s dwindling opportunities at Sunderland, particularly in the Premier League. The 24-year-old arrived at Brighton & Hove Albion in 2025, but had failed to prove himself as a starter. He was also loaned at AS Monaco toward the end of last season as he scored three goals and assisted on three occasions.
Ajax had already hurried to find him after rumours that he was likely to be eyeing him as a target for the winger after the former was joined by the alkaliphiles. A season-long loan was originally reported, but the deal finally involved a ‘buy-back’ option which allowed the Amsterdam club to bid for the player once its season was up.
Adingra brings lots of speed and attacking prowess, and one-on-one skill to Ajax’s attack. The Ivorian, too, has experience in the Premier League, Ligue 1 and European football, and he could prove to be a very good addition to a team seeking to play on the domestic and continental stage.
Adingra told Sports Direct’s website that Ajax’s tactics are in line with his traits, with a special knack for scoring when he’s surrounded by defenders and must be able to dribble with others. The winger’s pace, penetration and mentality were also key skills highlighted by Ajax sporting director Jordi Cruijff to immediately give the team attacking threat.
The move gives Sunderland the added advantage of giving Adingra the opportunity to play regularly in the first team instead of being ‘on the bench’ again this season. Sunderland had piled up competition in the attacking ranks with a late signing of Belgian winger Malick Fofana at the same time.
The transaction could have major ramifications for both teams. The Ajaxsters get an explosive winger who can make a breakthrough on the park and the Adingra players get their chance at one of Europe’s historic clubs to still have some breathing room. The surprise move might become a permanent transfer next summer when Ajax allows the former to acquire him.
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