Why Sunderland are signing Jules Ahoka and what he will bring | OneFootball

Sunderland are closing on a deal to sign Jules Ahoka from Royal Antwerp, their third addition of the summer.

According to Sunderland Echo, a medical is still to come after this week's Dayann Methalie episode, and at first glance it is a highly unusual move. Ahoka only joined from AC Normands in DR Congo last year and has made four senior appearances for Antwerp, one as a late substitute.

He needed time to settle and had minor injuries, but impressed on debut and in Antwerp's final two games. He broke through at centre back and has since shifted to holding midfield, a flexibility Sunderland value.

The 20-year-old shone at the Toulon tournament, then carried that form into the first two Pro League fixtures. In that tiny sample he ranks among the leaders for duels, aerials, tackles, interceptions and recoveries, has contributed in the box and registered an assist, though those numbers need caution.

There is risk given the limited evidence, yet this fits a model of moving early before elite clubs act. Many Antwerp fans are unhappy at the prospect of losing him, and some Belgian insiders are convinced he is a star in the making.

If completed, Ahoka would round off central midfield after Thomas Meunier replaced Lutsharel Geertruida. A right winger is the priority before one September, with a versatile striker in the Eliezer Mayenda mould and possibly another centre back considered. With Granit Xhaka holding the shirt, Ahoka could contribute while learning.

Source: Sunderland Echo

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