Sunderland Reveal Long-Term Interest in New Midfielder Jules Ahoka

Sunderland sporting director Florent Ghisolfi has revealed that the club had been monitoring Jules Ahoka for some time before completing the midfielder’s move to the Stadium of Light.

The Black Cats have agreed a deal believed to be worth around £8.6 million for the 20-year-old DR Congo international, who caught the eye with his performances for Royal Antwerp.

Ahoka has reportedly put pen to paper on a five-year contract and is expected to add further strength to Sunderland’s midfield ahead of their Europa League campaign.

His arrival represents Sunderland’s third signing of the summer, following the earlier additions of Thomas Meunier and Dayann Mathalie. The club have endured a relatively quiet transfer window so far but remain keen to strengthen further before the September 1 deadline.

Explaining the decision to bring Ahoka to Wearside, Ghisolfi said the club had been impressed by the youngster’s development and potential.

“Jules is a player we have been following closely and he has shown some very encouraging qualities for his age,” Ghisolfi said.

“His performances at the Toulon Tournament demonstrated his physicality, defensive qualities and mentality, while he has also gained valuable experience in Belgium.

“He has huge potential and we believe Sunderland is the right environment for him to continue his development.

“We are delighted to welcome him to the club and look forward to supporting him as he takes the next steps in his career.”

Ahoka will wear the number 29 shirt at Sunderland and is eager to begin his new chapter in England.

“I am very happy and proud to join Sunderland,” he said. “It is a big club with great ambitions, and I am excited to be here.

“I want to work hard, learn from my team-mates and the staff, and continue developing as a player. I will give everything for the club and I cannot wait to get started.”