Ghana’s Abdul Salis Samed joins Sunderland on loan

French club RC Lens has announced the loan transfer of Ghana international Salis Abdul Samed to AFC Sunderland in the English Championship until the end of the 2024/25 season.

The deal was finalized on transfer deadline day.

Abdul Samed, who played 39 matches across all competitions last season, including appearances in the Champions League and Europa League, had attracted interest from several French clubs, including FC Nantes, Stade Brestois, and AS Saint-Étienne. However, the defensive midfielder has opted to move to England instead.

New Lens manager Will Still had placed Abdul Samed on the transfer list, prompting speculation about his future throughout the summer.

Despite multiple inquiries from Ligue 1 clubs, the 24-year-old chose to make the switch to Sunderland.

The loan agreement with Sunderland does not include an option for a permanent transfer, meaning Abdul Samed is expected to return to Lens at the end of the season.

He follows in the footsteps if countrymen Asamoah Gyan and John Mensah to sign for the Stadium.of Light outfit.

Due to injury, Abdul Samed will not be available for Ghana during the upcoming international break. Black Stars coach Otto, on Thursday, confirmed his absence for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualifiers against Angola and Niger.

@Footyghana