Rabiu AminuSunderland Eye Audacious Swap Deal: Trai Hume for Raheem Sterling?
As the January transfer window looms, Sunderland AFC are reportedly exploring one of the most ambitious deals of the winter: a player swap that would bring Chelsea’s outcast Raheem Sterling to the Stadium of Light in exchange for highly-rated right-back Trai Hume.
Sterling, 31, has endured a frustrating period at Chelsea. After a disappointing loan spell at Arsenal last season and failing to secure a permanent move in the summer, the England international has been training away from the first team under Enzo Maresca. With his hefty wages and contract running until 2027, Chelsea are eager to offload the winger, who has not featured competitively this campaign. Recent reports link him with moves to Leeds United and Crystal Palace, but Sunderland’s bold proposal could shake up the race.
The Black Cats, now established in the Premier League following their promotion, are seeking experienced attackers to bolster their squad amid a solid mid-table campaign. Sterling’s pedigree—over 100 Premier League goals, multiple titles with Manchester City, and vast international experience—could provide the cutting edge and leadership needed to push for European spots. His versatility on the wings aligns perfectly with Regis Le Bris’s attacking setup, where players like Simon Adingra and Wilson Isidor have shone but could benefit from a veteran presence.In return, Sunderland would offer Trai Hume, the 23-year-old Northern Ireland international who has been a standout performer since joining from Linfield. Hume’s energetic displays at right-back have attracted interest from top clubs, with his contract extension last year underscoring his value. Chelsea, plagued by injuries to Reece James and depth issues in defense, see Hume as an ideal long-term solution—young, dynamic, and Premier League-proven.
Sources close to the negotiations suggest the deal could include wage subsidies from Chelsea to make Sterling’s salary feasible for Sunderland. While financial hurdles remain—Sterling earns significantly more than any current Black Cats player—the swap structure avoids hefty transfer fees, appealing to both clubs’ FFP constraints.
Past summer links between Sterling and Sunderland add credibility to the rumor, with the club previously touted as a potential destination for the winger. If completed, this move would represent a statement of intent from Sunderland owner Kyril Louis-Dreyfus, blending youth development with proven quality.
However, hurdles abound: Hume’s reluctance to leave a thriving project and competition from other suitors could derail talks. Fans on Wearside are divided—excited by Sterling’s potential impact but wary of losing a key defender.
As deadline day approaches, this swap could become the window’s talking point. Watch this space.
Mustapha Sheidu
Rabiu Aminu
