Transfers
Sunderland secure defender Jules Ahoka from Antwerp
The 20-year-old defender has completed his move to the Black Cats.
Sunderland have moved to bolster their defensive options by completing the signing of Jules Ahoka from Antwerp.
The deal was confirmed on Saturday, with the 20-year-old arriving at the Stadium of Light to put pen to paper on a permanent transfer.
Ahoka has committed his future to the Black Cats, though the length of his contract remains undisclosed.
The fee for the defender has not been revealed by either club, with both parties remaining tight-lipped on the financial details of the deal.
A product of the youth setup, Ahoka has been developing his game in Belgium and now makes the step up to the Championship.
His performances in Antwerp’s backline caught the attention of several clubs, and Sunderland moved quickly to secure his signature.
The defender passed his medical earlier in the week and was formally introduced to staff and teammates on Friday.
Manager Lee Johnson has been vocal about the need for defensive reinforcements, and Ahoka represents a young, energetic option in the heart of the backline.
The transfer window has been active for Sunderland, and this signing adds depth to a position that has seen rotation throughout pre-season.
Ahoka will wear the number five jersey and is expected to compete for minutes immediately, with the season set to begin next month.
His arrival adds further competition to the defensive unit, which has been a focus of recruitment since the summer window opened.
The Black Cats continue to explore additional targets as they aim to improve on last season’s performance.