Bradford City Plot Shift For Star Black Cat
Journalist Alan Nixon claims that Bradford City is contemplating a summer transfer for Sunderland defender Oliver Bainbridge in the upcoming weeks.
This summer, the Championship team will loan out the 18-year-old, who has been a standout player for the Black Cats U21s throughout the 2023–24 campaign. The Bantams are now in the lead in the competition to sign him.
How did last season’s Bainbridge fare?
This season, Bainbridge has made 20 appearances for Sunderland across all competitions. On Sunday, May 26, he started the team’s play-off final matchup against Tottenham Hotspur’s U21s.
Bainbridge has assisted on three goals in that span, including one that was scored last month during a 4-0 victory over Blackburn Rovers U21s. Although he has made Sunderland’s matchday roster in the Championship, he has not yet been given his first team debut.
What benefits may Bainbridge provide Bradford?
On the last day of the 2023–24 season, the Bantams almost missed out on the League Two play-off spots. However, they have already started their summer recruiting class with the addition of Neill Byrne and Antoni Sarcevic, two players from Stockport County.
Additionally, Bradford has announced that left-back Liam Ridehalgh was released when his contract expired, creating a void that has to be filled. Bainbridge could be able to fill this need, which would enable him to play regularly for the first squad in League Two the following season.
Bainbridge has scored 14 goals in 80 games while playing at the youth level, indicating that he can play in both offensive and defensive zones, which might be a valuable asset for Graham Alexander’s team.
Is a deal likely to happen?
Alan Nixon reports that Bainbridge is anticipated to be loaned out by Sunderland this summer in quest of consistent first-team play, with Bradford City leading the way despite competition.
Bradford seems to be in good position to sign the 18-year-old this summer, given the Bantams have a void in that position and Sunderland is eager for their defender to play frequently.
