Lucas Stassin, the target of Sunderland, expressed his preference for making a summer move to Saint-Etienne over Wearside as he perceived switching to Sunderland as a risky endeavor. Despite Sunderland’s strong start to the 2024/25 season, securing four wins out of four matches and topping the league standings, the club faced uncertainties in signing a striker towards the end of the transfer window. While Gent’s Ahmed Abdullahi was brought in, his injury setback poses a challenge, casting doubt on his playing time for the season.

Stassin, a sought-after player by the Championship leaders, ultimately chose Saint-Etienne for €10m on deadline day due to the club’s stability in Ligue 1 compared to Sunderland’s uncertain future. This decision highlights Stassin’s hesitation in committing to a club aiming for promotion to the Premier League but facing uncertainties. Notably, Sunderland had shown interest in Stassin previously in January 2023, after his impressive performances with Anderlecht Futures and later at KVC Westerlo.

As Sunderland prepares to face Plymouth Argyle post-international break, the team looks to integrate new signings Chris Mepham and Milan Aleksic into the squad. However, injuries will keep recent signings Abdullahi and Salis Abdul Samed out of the trip, leaving room for forward Wilson Isidor to potentially make his debut alongside returning captain Dan Neil, who faces competition from Jobe Bellingham for his starting spot.