Yoane Wissa
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Sunderland may find themselves in a favorable position this weekend as they prepare to face Brentford at the Stadium of Light. Brentford’s manager, Keith Andrews, has revealed that Johan Wissa is unlikely to be part of the squad, owing to persistent transfer interest from Newcastle United. The 28-year-old forward, who has been a key player for Brentford, is reportedly keen on a move to St James’ Park, although Newcastle’s bids have so far been rejected. Brentford has indicated that only an offer of around £60 million would prompt discussions, a figure that Newcastle is yet to meet.
Keith Andrews said: “Nothing’s changed in terms of my stance. There’s no movement behind the scenes, so the situation is the same as the other day. The squad will be pretty much the same as it was – we’re focusing on the group that’s settled and doesn’t have issues ongoing, which clearly Johan has.”
Andrews also confirmed that while dialogue with Wissa remains “constant” and “respectful”, his preference is to build around the players fully focused on Brentford: “I speak to Johan pretty much daily. I’ve got huge respect for him and the relationship we’ve had, but for obvious reasons, it’s been difficult. He’s training, yes, but we’re concentrating on the group that’s fully settled.”
Despite Newcastle’s ongoing pursuit, Andrews reiterated his belief that Wissa will remain a Brentford player beyond the transfer deadline, making clear the club’s stance hasn’t shifted. “I think the football club wants to hold on to Johan, and I certainly don’t want to lose him,” he said. “My view hasn’t changed – we want him here.”
Wissa’s potential absence could be a significant advantage for Sunderland, who are eager to capitalize on their positive start in the Premier League under manager Régis Le Bris. The Black Cats are set to host Brentford in front of a sold-out crowd, aiming to deliver another strong performance.
Meanwhile, Sunderland’s sporting director, Kristjaan Speakman, has assured fans that the club remains active in the transfer market, with efforts continuing until the deadline on September 1st. Speakman emphasized the importance of building a robust squad for the Premier League while also considering the club’s long-term future.
Kristjaan Speakman said: “It is a process all the way through to the end of the month. I mean, we’re trying to build the best squad for the Premier League that we can do. We think we’ve had a really good start at that. Obviously, today will be a good test for us, the first game, but we’ll be working away through to deadline day to try to make sure that the team is the right team and the squad is the right squad.”
“Fans will be excited, obviously keen to see the new faces, but I think there’ll be a few as well who want a bit of reassurance. You know, we’ve seen history not be kind to some clubs who’ve had a real go. So it’s bound to be a bit of a gamble, it always is. But how much is the club future-proof to make sure everything will be okay in the long run?”
Sunderland’s strategic approach to the transfer window reflects their commitment to both immediate success and sustainable growth, as they navigate the challenges of the Premier League season.
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