Sunderland are reportedly still on the hunt for another striker from the pool of free agents, despite a busy summer transfer window that saw the club bolster their squad with several no-fee signings.
Speculation has emerged in recent days suggesting that Sunderland may be eyeing a forward to fill what some see as a gap in their attacking lineup. While the Black Cats made significant additions during the window, concerns persist that they remain somewhat light in the forward department.
One name that has been floated on social media is Aaron Connolly, a former striker for Brighton and Hull City who has been without a club since parting ways with Hull in 2023 after a one-year contract. It has been previously reported that the rumours are false, but that isn’t the case. Sources close to the club have confirmed to EFL Hub that the reports are, in fact, accurate and that a move for the player is currently on the club’s agenda. It may take a week or so to tie up, but a move for the 24-year-old is being considered.
Connolly enjoyed a solid campaign with Hull City last season, netting eight goals in 23 appearances. However, injury problems have plagued the striker, which may explain why he remains a free agent despite interest from several Football League clubs. Connolly’s career began with promise; he joined Brighton’s academy in 2016 and quickly made a name for himself as a prolific scorer at the youth level, which led to his first-team debut in the Premier League.
The Irishman made his Premier League breakthrough during the 2019/20 season, where his standout moment came in October 2019 when he netted twice in a memorable 3-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur. Connolly’s pace, technical ability, and finishing instinct earned him high praise and a regular spot in Brighton’s squad. He wrapped up his debut Premier League season with 24 appearances and three goals.
Despite his early promise, injuries and a dip in form stalled Connolly’s career progress. Over the next two seasons, he struggled for consistency, prompting loan spells intended to reinvigorate his form. He spent time on loan at Championship side Middlesbrough in 2022, scoring twice in 21 appearances, before another loan move to Serie B’s Venezia. However, injuries once again limited his opportunities to make an impact in Italy.
Connolly’s most recent stint was at Hull City, where he signed a one-year contract for the 2022/23 season. Although he showed flashes of his ability with eight goals, Hull decided against extending his stay, leaving Connolly a free agent and seeking his next club.
Sunderland’s sporting director Kristjaan Speakman has been active in utilizing the free agent market, having already brought in four no-cost signings during the summer, and by adding Connolly, for nothing, they’re taking a risk, but a mitigated one.
Site Opinion: Cautious Approach
Sunderland’s interest in adding another striker underscores the club’s awareness of a possible gap in their squad. With Ahmed Abdullahi sidelined by injury and the relative lack of experience of forwards Eliezer Mayenda and Wilson Isidor, the need for an additional option up front is apparent. While Aaron Connolly might seem like a tempting choice due to his Championship experience, his injury record is a major red flag that the club must consider carefully.
Connolly’s goal-scoring history shows he can be effective at this level, but the fact that he has yet to secure a new club raises concerns about his fitness and ability to stay healthy over the long term. While Sunderland may have rightly been cautious about committing to Connolly, their need for a proven striker remains urgent if they want to mount a serious promotion challenge this season. Addressing this gap with the right player will be key to maintaining their push up the Championship table.
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