Sunderland secured their sixth signing of the summer earlier this week with the arrival of Simon Adingra from Premier League side Brighton & Hove Albion.
Adingra joins Chemsdine Talbi, Noah Sadiki, Habib Diallo, Enzo Le Fée, and Reinildo in strengthening Regis Le Bris’ squad ahead of the new season. So far, Reinildo is the only addition to the backline, suggesting Sunderland may target further defensive reinforcements before the window closes.
Back in June, reports linked the club with a permanent move for Chris Mepham, who spent last season on loan from Bournemouth. However, there have been no developments on that front in recent weeks.
Sunderland eyeing move for Ligue 1 defender
It now appears the club are exploring alternatives to the Wales international, with fresh reports linking them to another right-sided centre-back.
According to Football Insider, Sunderland are lining up a move for Toulouse defender Charlie Cresswell as they continue to build for the upcoming campaign. The report states that the newly promoted side are ‘plotting’ a deal for the England U21 international.
Scout Mick Brown told Football Insider: “Sunderland have been monitoring Charlie Cresswell. They had scouts watching the Under-21 Euros and, from what I’ve heard, were very impressed with his performances.”
The Sun previously reported that Toulouse would demand around £18 million to part ways with the former Leeds United centre-back, who could prove to be a more valuable addition than Mepham.
Why Cresswell would be a smart signing for Sunderland
Regis Le Bris should urge the club to pursue a deal for the 22-year-old defender, who helped England win the U21 European Championship this summer. Cresswell impressed during the tournament, winning 67% of his duels across six matches, and also delivered strong performances in Ligue 1 with Toulouse.
Unlike Mepham—who featured regularly in the Championship last season—Cresswell has proven himself in a top European league, showing consistent defensive strength and a threat from set-pieces.
Statistically, Cresswell’s recent top-flight displays surpass Mepham’s last Premier League season with Bournemouth, making him a more compelling option both in terms of current ability and upside.
Described as “incredible” during a previous loan spell at Millwall by scout Jacek Kulig, Cresswell is also five years younger than Mepham, meaning he offers more room to grow and develop.
All considered, Cresswell would represent a smarter, longer-term investment for Sunderland as they prepare for life back in the Premier League.
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