Sunderland failed to make it out of the League One last season even though they were in an advantageous position for a long time on the table. The club though should look to build on this, and Jack Ross has already started making transfers for the next season.
Not too long ago, they wrapped up the signing of Conor McLaughlin, a right back from Millwall. Now reports from the Chronicle confirms that the Black Cats have secured their second signing of the summer in the form of 20-year-old goalkeeper Ahmed Abdelkader. Although the club has not yet officially announced this on their website.
The report though adds that Abdelkader isn’t being seen as a first team option yet and he is likely to play for the Sunderland u-23 side. Not much is known about the goalkeeper as he hasn’t made any senior team appearances yet. The Algerian player has played for Guingamp’s reserve side in France and Cypriot side ENAD Polis Chrysochous.
Sunderland’s goalkeeping conundrum
Scottish custodian Jon McLaughlin played a crucial role last season for Jack Ross’ side, and he is likely to continue as the no. 1 in goal for the next season as well. However, there is a clear need for the club to look for a second choice goalkeeper as Sunderland released the likes of Robbin Ruiter, Max Stryjek and Max Johnstone after the end of last season.
Abdelkader might be seen as a reserve player for now, but if he goes on to impress, then he might be drafted into the first team. The Black Cats though will hope that letting three goalkeepers leave after the end of the season doesn’t come back to bite them as McLaughlin’s impressive performances in the League One hasn’t gone unnoticed.
He is being linked with a move to Middlesbrough. There is no doubt that Jack Ross would try everything in his means to hold on to the custodian. However, one cannot overlook the fact that Middlesbrough are the bigger fish in the pond and they are likely to compete for promotion to the Premier League next season. Therefore one cannot blame McLaughlin if his head starts turning.
What can Sunderland do?
The club still needs to sign one more goalkeeper, and the fans would hope that they will bring someone who is more proven at the top level than Abdelkader. The Algerian goalkeeper had a trial with Leicester City last year, so there is no doubt that the 20-year-old could be a talented goalie. It remains to be seen whether he would be able to make it at the top level. For that to happen, he will have to keep on working hard for the reserve team.
