Sunderland Secure Dramatic Hijack for Ivorian Starlet Jocelin Ta Bi

In a sensational turn of events this January, Sunderland have officially completed the signing of Ivorian winger Jocelin Ta Bi, snatching the 20-year-old from under the noses of Scottish giants Celtic. The “here we go” confirmation from Fabrizio Romano marks a significant coup for Regis Le Bris, as the Black Cats agreed a £3.5 million fee with Maccabi Netanya.

​The deal appeared all but settled for Celtic, who had a verbal agreement in place and even sent medical staff to Israel to oversee the move. However, following reported complications during the medical and subsequent second opinions in London, the door was left ajar. Sunderland pounced on the uncertainty, offering a five-year contract and a superior financial package to secure the left-footed attacker’s services.

​Ta Bi, who has been a standout performer while on loan at Hapoel Petah Tikva with two goals and two assists in 12 appearances, brings elite dribbling and flair to the Wearside attack. While Celtic manager Martin O’Neill is left to explore other options, Sunderland fans are hailing the move as a masterstroke of recruitment that adds high-potential depth for their Premier League campaign.