Ajax are in advanced negotiations with Sunderland over a season-long loan for Ivory Coast winger Simon Adingra, who is being considered as the replacement for Mika Godts following his move to Paris Saint-Germain.
The Eredivisie club want to complete the deal before the transfer window closes at 23:59 on Wednesday. The proposed agreement would include an option for Ajax to buy the 24-year-old at the end of the loan.
Adingra missed Sunderland’s opening two Premier League matches of the season because of a minor injury. However, that issue is not expected to prevent him from moving to Amsterdam.
Ajax have been searching for a left winger who can offer both attacking quality and a strong threat in one-on-one situations. They believe Adingra is the right profile to fill the position vacated by Godts.
Adingra began his European career with FC Nordsjælland, who brought him to Europe when he was 18. Two and a half years later, he was sold to Brighton & Hove Albion.
The Ivorian subsequently spent time on loan at Union Saint-Gilloise and AS Monaco before joining Sunderland last season for just under €25m.
He has made 74 Premier League appearances in total and scored nine goals. Adingra is now close to making the next move in his career, with a switch to the Netherlands potentially taking him into the Eredivisie.
Ajax’s interest reflects their need to strengthen on the left side of the attack, and negotiations with Sunderland have reached an advanced stage. The Amsterdam club are hoping the remaining details can be settled before Wednesday night’s deadline.
Adingra’s pace and ability to take on defenders are viewed by Ajax as key qualities for the role. The proposed loan would allow the club to assess the winger during the season before deciding whether to activate the purchase option.
For Sunderland, the agreement would see Adingra leave temporarily after one season with the club. For Ajax, it would provide a possible successor to Godts while also giving them the opportunity to make the move permanent at a later date.
The transfer remains subject to the final stages of negotiations, but Adingra is expected to become Ajax’s new left winger if the deal is completed.