Sunderland bring in 20-year-old midfielder Jules Ahoka

Sunderland AFC have signed Jules Ahoka on a long-term contract, making the 20-year-old midfielder the club’s third arrival of the summer transfer window.

Ahoka joins from Royal Antwerp, where he had made two appearances in the Jupiler Pro League so far this season. He will wear number 29 at Sunderland.

The midfielder attracted attention with his performances for his country at the prestigious 2026 Toulon Tournament for under-20 players this summer. His side finished fourth, with Ahoka playing an important role in their run.

Ahoka began his senior career at AC Normands, the club where he developed, before moving to Royal Antwerp in September 2025. His move to Sunderland represents the next stage of his progress in English football.

Sunderland AFC sporting director Florent Ghisolfi said the club had been monitoring Ahoka closely and believed he had already shown qualities beyond his years.

“Jules is a player we have been following closely and he has shown very encouraging qualities for his age,” said Ghisolfi.

“His performances at the Toulon Tournament demonstrated his physicality, defensive qualities and mentality, and he also gained valuable experience in Belgium. He has enormous potential and we are convinced that Sunderland is the ideal environment for him to continue his development.”

“We are delighted to welcome him to the Club and look forward to supporting him through the next steps of his career.”

Ahoka is described as a combative midfielder with excellent defensive ability. His displays in France, combined with his early exposure to first-team football in Belgium, helped convince Sunderland to make their move.

The transfer follows the arrivals of Thomas Munier and Dayann Methalie, who were the club’s first two signings of the summer window.

Ahoka said he was proud to join a club with ambitious plans.

“I am very happy and proud to join Sunderland,” he said. “It is a great club with great ambitions, and I am delighted to be here.”

“I want to work hard, learn from my team-mates and the staff, and continue to develop as a player. I will give everything for the club and I cannot wait to get started.”

His arrival adds another young option to Sunderland’s midfield as the club continue to build their squad. The long-term agreement gives Ahoka the opportunity to develop within the club while adapting to the demands of English football.

The midfielder’s immediate experience includes his two Jupiler Pro League appearances for Royal Antwerp this season, while his fourth-place finish at the Toulon Tournament provided a wider platform to showcase his defensive strengths, physical qualities and determination.