Eliezer Mayenda is set to leave Sunderland to join Portuguese champions Porto.
It was a risky move for Porto to test Sunderland’s status fresh from their reluctance to offer Chelsea Granit Xhaka, but it appears they caught the Black Cats in a better position.
Whether Mayenda’s exit will likely mean the start of another arrival at the Stadium of Light remains to be seen, but Sunderland have plenty to offer this summer.
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Football FanCast verdict |
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Honesty |
The latest update comes from Matteo Moretto, known for his work with the famous transfer expert Fabrizio Romano on the latest YouTube channel. His report says that Mayenda’s move to Porto is now “imminent” and it is unlikely that this report will be so strong without some concrete truth in it. |
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Finance |
As things stand, it is unclear how much Porto is paying Mayenda. The Sunderland striker has four years left on his current deal, so it’s easy to imagine that the Portuguese club will have to at least reach their valuation or more this summer. |
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Understanding |
The 21-year-old striker lost his starting place to Brian Brobbey last season, but that shouldn’t put clubs off. As a backup, he has a lot of value at Sunderland. Their story, however, is that he wants the first role. |
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Impact |
Mayenda is yet to reach the peak of his power at such a young age, but it remains to be seen. Having scored 10 goals in the Championship as Sunderland were promoted in the 2024/25 campaign, his potential is clear for all to see. |
After two years at the Stadium of Light, it looks like Mayenda’s time at Sunderland may be coming to an end.
Mayenda is “on the brink” of joining Porto
According to Matteo Moretto, Porto are now “on the verge” of signing Mayenda from Sunderland. Negotiations are about to be completed and the player seems to be heading to Portugal.
It’s a mistake for the Black Cats, but it’s also a deal they’re clearly willing to punish, given how adamant they have been in the face of Chelsea’s pursuit of Xhaka while in contention.
As for Mayenda, it’s a big chance to make a name for himself outside of English football in a move that should result in more chances.
Sunderland must replace Mayenda ASAP
On paper it may look like Sunderland are just losing a third player but the addition of European football means every player has a part to play.
After losing Mayenda, Regis Le Bris must welcome a replacement to give Wilson Isidor and Brian Brobbey more contests. Who that might be is the big question.
Of course, it doesn’t have to be the same player, either. Sunderland have been linked with a surprise move for Jonathan David, for example, whose arrival will transform the Wearside order.
To say that it will be better to go from Mayenda to a player of David’s caliber would be an understatement. Quite simply, it would be an impressive piece of business from Sunderland.
