Sunderland sporting director Kristjaan Speakman has expressed his joy following the acquisition of Morocco attacker Chemsdine Talbi.
The 20-year-old, who represented Belgium at the youth level has penned a five-year deal to join the Black Cats, keeping him at the club until 2030.
Talbi enjoyed a breakthrough 2024-25 season in the Jupiler Pro League, contributing seven goals and five assists in 44 appearances, including 11 outings in the UEFA Champions League.
“Our momentum and story are powerful, and I think players of Chemsdine’s calibre, who are in high demand, are excited by the prospect of playing for Sunderland AFC. It’s a testament to our recent past and immediate future that he feels this we are the right Club for his next step”
“Predominantly playing wide right, Chemsdine excels in duels and possesses elite physical qualities, and he also has flexibility to play across the frontline. Our supporters will rightly be excited to see him play, and we are delighted to welcome him to Sunderland.”
He is expected to play a huge role for Sunderland, who are poised to maintain their spot in the Premier League following their return to the top-fight.
The winger begun his career with Royale Union Tubize-Braine before moving to Club Brugge aged 10.
He signed a three-year professional contract in 2022 and represented Brugge’s development team, Club NXT, in Belgium’s second tier throughout the 2022-23 season, scoring on his senior debut.
Talbi also made his Club Brugge debut the same campaign against K.V. Kortrijk, with a further three senior appearances coming in 2023-24, the season before he took the top-flight by storm.
Capped by Belgium at youth level, Talbi declared his intention to represent Morocco earlier this year.
