Simon Adingra has completed a permanent transfer to newly promoted Sunderland, signing a five-year contract with the Premier League club following his departure from Brighton.
The 23-year-old Ivory Coast international made the switch on Thursday, July 10, committing to the Black Cats until 2030.
The move marks a significant step in Adingra’s career after a season in which he featured prominently for Brighton across multiple competitions.
Former Chelsea and Ivory Coast forward Salomon Kalou has welcomed the transfer, describing Adingra as a player with the talent and mentality to thrive in England’s top flight.
Kalou expressed confidence that the winger would quickly become a key figure at Sunderland.
I think he (Adingra) will excel at Sunderland, that’s a given, said Kalou. He’s a brilliant player who brings a touch of originality to the teams he plays for. He’s a player who drives the ball, beats opponents and creates chances. For me, he will be a major asset to Sunderland.
Kalou, who won the UEFA Champions League with Chelsea in 2012, praised Adingra’s technical qualities and maturity on the pitch, especially for a player still developing his game.
His ability with the ball, for such a young player, is excellent, he added. I love his way of receiving the ball, his calmness and his awareness. He has irresistible qualities if he is in the right position, so he just needs to keep working hard. I think Sunderland have signed a quality player.
Adingra arrives at Sunderland after a season in which he played 33 matches for Brighton, scoring five goals and providing two assists.
He also starred for Ivory Coast at the recent Africa Cup of Nations, earning praise for his composure and creativity in wide areas.
His market value is currently estimated at €28 million by Transfermarkt.
Kalou believes that both on and off the pitch, Adingra’s character will serve him well in this new chapter.
Simon (Adingra) has all the qualities to become a top-level player. We saw what he did for Côte d’Ivoire at the last Africa Cup of Nations, Kalou said. He’s a humble boy, and if he continues like this, the future is bright.
During his time at Brighton, Adingra earned an annual salary of €756,218—approximately 491 million FCFA.
Now, with a long-term contract in place, he is set to bring pace, flair and purpose to a Sunderland side looking to make their mark in the Premier League.
