Former Sunderland chief scout Mick Brown has reiterated Sunderland’s position to Football Insider, indicating that the Black Cats are not looking to sell Brian Brobbey this summer. The 24-year-old Dutch striker was signed from Ajax on September 1, 2025, for an initial fee of €20 million, which could increase to €25 million. He has rapidly established himself as one of the standout forwards in the Premier League.
Sunderland Declares Brian Brobbey Unavailable for Transfer
Brown emphasized Brobbey’s significance to Sunderland, calling him “a really important player.” He mentioned that only a “huge fee” would prompt any discussions about a sale, although he expressed skepticism that the club would consider selling at all. Brobbey’s memorable last-minute goal against Newcastle United made headlines in the Netherlands, with pundit Marciano Vink noting the striker’s physical development since moving to England. Brown praised Sunderland’s summer transfer strategy, stating that a solid first season back in the Premier League underscores the need to retain their top talents.
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This season, Brobbey has made 22 appearances in the Premier League, scoring five goals and providing one assist. His scoring rate of 0.37 goals per 90 minutes makes him Sunderland’s leading scorer in the league, showcasing his physical capabilities. Brobbey has engaged in 195 duels and won 51 headers throughout the campaign, highlighting why manager Regis Le Bris has such faith in him. With a contract that runs until June 2029, Sunderland is in a strong position to reject any offers.
“Brobbey has become a really important player for Sunderland,” Brown stated to Football Insider. “It’s clear the manager values what he brings to the squad, so I can’t see them looking to sell him, regardless of any incoming bids.
“Sunderland executed their recruitment brilliantly this summer, and it’s been a very strong season for them, with Brobbey being highly impressive.
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“He poses a challenge for defenders. He is strong, can hold off opponents, battles for the ball, makes runs behind defenses, and scores goals. This combination makes him an incredibly valuable asset. Sunderland has had a successful season and will want to build on that rather than lose key players already.
“It would take a substantial offer to even start a conversation, and even then, I’m not sure they would want to sell.”
Can Sunderland Retain Brian Brobbey Long-Term?
SUNDERLAND, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 11: Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool wins an aerial duel against Brian Brobbey of Sunderland during their Premier League clash at the Stadium of Light on February 11, 2026. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
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The scenario is becoming increasingly intriguing. Sunderland strategically built their squad last summer, with Brobbey brought in as the key forward in an ambitious project. He previously garnered two consecutive Eredivisie Player of the Month awards and the Player of the Year honor at Ajax. This move was a calculated investment in a proven talent.
Brobbey’s strengths allow him to excel in the Premier League, regularly pinning defenders back and winning aerial duels. He presses diligently from the front and finishes well from inside the box. While he struggled to maintain his stamina at Ajax, his endurance has markedly improved since his transfer to England, reflecting his commitment to addressing this weakness. Though he occasionally drifts offside and his passing can be inconsistent under pressure, these minor flaws do not overshadow his substantial impact on the field.
Beyond Brobbey himself, Sunderland has made significant progress in their return to a competitive position in the league. They have not merely survived but have actively challenged other clubs. Additionally, Brobbey has represented the Netherlands at the international level, earning eight caps and scoring his first goal against Bosnia and Herzegovina in November 2024. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching, Brobbey’s market value is likely to rise, attracting interest from larger clubs.
Sunderland’s resolute stance is commendable. They signed him at a reasonable price and secured him with a long-term contract. Given his performance in high-stakes derby matches, selling him now would suggest a lack of ambition. It would also necessitate replacing a striker who seamlessly fits their system. Sunderland should disregard any offers under £50 million. At 24, committed until 2029, and representing a top national team, Brobbey is a significant asset that is more difficult to replace than it is to retain.