Sunderland Open to Selling Eliezer Mayenda Amid West Ham Interest

Sunderland is reportedly ready to sell Eliezer Mayenda, a target for West Ham United, this summer.

The Black Cats are preparing for a Europa League campaign after securing a spot in UEFA’s second-tier club competition with a strong final-day victory over Chelsea at the Stadium of Light.

Just over a year ago, Sunderland’s team, managed by Regis Le Bris, was competing in the second tier of English football. They clinched their Premier League return by defeating Sheffield United in the 2025 Championship playoff final.

Despite concerns about their ability to compete after an eight-year absence from the top flight, Sunderland successfully avoided relegation, finishing comfortably above the drop zone.

In contrast, West Ham is facing challenges after being relegated to the Championship for the first time in over ten years, finishing 18th in the Premier League standings—two points shy of Tottenham Hotspur.

© Imago.

Sunderland’s Stance on Mayenda

According to Football Insider, Sunderland is open to respectable offers for Mayenda, who has faced limited playing time in the Premier League over the past ten months.

The 21-year-old has started only eight matches this season and is reportedly dissatisfied with his role at Sunderland, having joined from French club Sochaux in summer 2023.

West Ham, now preparing for life in the Championship, is among several clubs interested in Mayenda. The Spain Under-21 international is attracting attention from various top-flight teams across Europe.

However, it has been suggested that West Ham may find it challenging to secure Mayenda’s signature this summer due to competition from other premier clubs vying for his talents ahead of next season.

Mayenda had a notable performance during Sunderland’s promotion-winning Championship campaign in 2024-25, scoring ten goals and providing five assists.

© Imago / Mark Pain.

West Ham’s Squad Changes Ahead

As they gear up for their first Championship season since 2011-12, West Ham is expected to lose several key players who may not want to endure a demanding second-tier campaign.

Jarrod Bowen, who narrowly missed out on a World Cup spot with England this summer, remains a valuable asset for West Ham after consistently strong performances in the Premier League.

Taty Castellanos has also drawn interest from top-tier club Everton following his impressive displays for West Ham during the latter part of last season.