Ian Poveda appears to be on the verge of joining Sunderland on a free transfer following the expiration of his contract with Leeds United. However, pundit Carlton Palmer believes this move won’t significantly impact Sheffield Wednesday.

Poveda was seen in Sunderland’s 2024/25 home shirt outside their Academy of Light training ground on Wednesday morning. Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie has since confirmed that the Colombia international has undergone a medical to finalize the deal. The Northern Echo had reported Sunderland’s interest in Poveda earlier this week, and the transfer has progressed swiftly, bringing the winger to Wearside.

Poveda, a former Manchester City academy graduate, joined Leeds United in 2019 and has spent most of his time on loan at various Championship clubs, including Blackburn Rovers, Blackpool, and most recently Sheffield Wednesday. Now, at 24, he is set to continue his career at the Stadium of Light.

Carlton Palmer, speaking exclusively to Football League World, downplayed the impact of Poveda’s departure on Sheffield Wednesday. Despite Poveda’s impressive loan spell at Hillsborough last season, Palmer believes Wednesday won’t be significantly affected by losing him to Sunderland. “Sunderland appear to have beaten Sheffield Wednesday to Poveda’s signing. He played a key role in helping the Owls avoid relegation last season,” Palmer told FLW.

“He was available on a free transfer, attracting interest from several clubs, including Sunderland, Burnley, Luton Town, and West Bromwich Albion. It seems the Black Cats have won the race. Poveda’s performance at Sheffield Wednesday was impressive, but as a free agent, he was always going to attract attention from multiple clubs. While Sheffield Wednesday would have liked to keep him, Danny Rohl has been busy assembling a competitive squad for next season, so losing Poveda isn’t a major blow,” Palmer added.

Despite making only 10 appearances with no goals and one assist for Wednesday last season, Poveda’s impact was felt through his directness and attacking flair, contributing significantly to the team’s unbeaten run in their final six matches. Many Wednesday fans would have liked to see him return, making his move to a Championship rival disappointing.

For Sunderland, Poveda’s signing offers some protection if they lose winger Jack Clarke, who has attracted interest from Premier League side Ipswich Town. Clarke’s potential departure would leave a void on Sunderland’s left flank that Poveda could fill. Whether this is the main reason for signing Poveda remains to be seen, but it could be a strategic move by Sunderland.