Wycombe Wanderers are in negotiations to sign Sunderland defender Niall Huggins on a loan deal before the deadline, with the move described as close by Football League World.
Deal Outline and Wycombe Context
The developing plan is a straightforward loan, which would give head coach Mike Dodds additional cover at full back as Wycombe navigate a congested early schedule. Huggins is comfortable on either flank, which is valuable when balancing selection across league and cup fixtures.
From Wycombe’s side, the move fits a targeted approach that prioritises positional depth and athletic profiles that can adapt to different in-game demands.
Player Profile and Contract Status
Huggins came through at Leeds United before joining Sunderland and has played senior football at both right back and left back. His main attributes are recovery pace, one v one defending in wide areas, and the ability to step inside with the ball when space opens in midfield.
Sunderland confirmed in October 2024 that Huggins had extended his contract to 2026, which means any loan now would be about minutes and development rather than end-of-deal necessity. That agreement underlines Sunderland’s long-term view of the player while also creating scope for temporary moves that keep him on a learning curve.
After an extended injury lay-off, Huggins returned to action during 2025 and built fitness with appearances across pre-season and early cup ties. Local coverage on Wearside described his 2025 return as a chance to reset after interrupted campaigns, with the emphasis on getting a run of games at senior level. A loan to Wycombe would provide a clearer path to regular starts, which is often decisive for a full back’s rhythm and confidence.
What Happens Next?
With the window in its final hours, completion depends on club-to-club agreement, player sign-off and registration before the cut-off. It seems as though negotiations are advanced and that Wycombe are pushing to get the deal over the line. If concluded, the move would give Dodds another option on both sides of the defence and immediate competition for places.
Site Opinion
This makes sense for all parties. Wycombe add a quick, defensively sound full back who can operate on either flank and cover multiple roles in the build-up phase. Huggins gains the one thing he needs most, which is consistent senior minutes.
Sunderland protect their longer contract while giving the player a platform to sharpen form and fitness. For Wycombe, the loan would raise the floor of the defensive unit without a long bedding-in period, and it should increase the intensity of training and selection in the full-back positions right away.
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