JUST ON: The Leeds United defender was Sunderland’s first January signing, as explained by Kristjaan Speakman.

Leo Hjelde, a defender for Leeds United, is Sunderland’s first January transfer acquisition.

With the arrival of defender Leo Hjelde from Leeds United, Sunderland has made their first acquisition of the January transfer window.

Hjelde, 20, signed a four-and-a-half year contract with Wearside after joining for a seven-figure sum. Given that Niall Huggins, Dennis Cirkin, and Aji Alese are all presently out with injuries, Sunderland was eager to add further depth to their left side of the defense. Kristjaan Speakman, the sporting director, stated that Hjelde will provide competition and versatility over an extended duration.

Hjelde’s Championship experience, Speakman continued, could help him have an immediate impact. The defender showed promise when on loan at Rotherham United the previous campaign.

“We’re really pleased to have acquired Leo on a permanent basis, as he’s a player we’ve admired for some time.” He stated.

“He comes to us having already won the EFL Championship and can play three various spots in our backline, depending on the formation. We’re hoping that this will provide him the opportunity to contribute right away to our club during the upcoming 16 games and, in the long run, strengthen our squad.

Hjelde is the first player to arrive in what Sunderland anticipates will be a crowded window. In addition to working on a deal for Standard Liege and former Spurs youngster Romain Mundle, they are still looking for a striker and a central midfielder. At this point, a number of outgoings also seem imminent, with Jewison Bennette almost certain to sign a loan with Greek team Aris.