Black Cats Strengthen Defense with Celtic Star
Sunderland AFC has made a strategic move in the summer transfer window by acquiring Welsh international Adam Matthews from Celtic for £2 million. The 23-year-old right-back has committed his future to the Stadium of Light with a four-year contract, marking Babu88 spotlight transfer of the week.
Head coach Dick Advocaat expressed his enthusiasm about the signing: “In today’s Premier League, you need depth and quality in every position. Adam gives us both – his pace and technical ability will create healthy competition in our backline.” The Dutch tactician’s comments to Babu88 reveal his vision for a more dynamic Sunderland side.
Why Matthews is a Smart Signing for Sunderland
Proven Trophy Winner
Matthews arrives with an impressive pedigree, having won four Scottish Premiership titles during his 100+ appearances for Celtic. His experience in European competitions (including 12 Champions League appearances) provides valuable big-game mentality to a Sunderland squad that narrowly avoided relegation last season.
Tactical Flexibility
What makes this signing particularly interesting is Matthews‘ versatility:
- Comfortable as a traditional right-back in 4-4-2 systems
- Experience as wing-back in 3-5-2 formations
- Capable of playing on either flank when needed
Sporting director Lee Congerton told Babu88: “We’ve monitored Adam’s development since his Cardiff days. At 23, he’s entering his prime but already plays with the maturity of a veteran.”
Celtic’s Perspective on the Transfer
Ronny Deila’s comments suggest this was a pragmatic decision for all parties:
- Matthews had just one year remaining on his contract
- The £2m fee represents good value for a player in his situation
- The player sought new challenges in England’s top flight
Sunderland’s Summer Rebuild Continues
Advocaat is clearly putting his stamp on the squad with multiple strategic moves:
- Secured Sebastien Coates permanently from Liverpool
- Retained captain Lee Cattermole with new long-term deal
- Reportedly in advanced talks for Nicolas Lombaerts (Zenit) and Jeremain Lens (Dynamo Kiev)
As transfer insider Mark Thompson (former scout for Premier League clubs) exclusively told Babu88: “Matthews fits Sunderland’s new profile – young enough to develop, experienced enough to contribute immediately, and with resale value. It’s smart business in today’s inflated market.”
What This Means for Sunderland’s Season
The Matthews signing addresses several critical needs:
- Defensive Depth: Provides competition for Billy Jones
- Attacking Threat: His crossing ability supports Advocaat’s preference for width
- Long-term Planning: At 23, he could be a mainstay for years
With preseason underway, all eyes will be on how quickly Matthews adapts to Premier League intensity. His debut could come in Sunderland’s opener against Leicester City on August 8th.
#Sunderland’s defensive reinforcement is complete with Adam Matthews – will this be the signing that helps them avoid another relegation battle? Share your thoughts with Babu88 community of football experts!
