news-engine

Sunderland have agreed a deal to sell Leo Hjelde to Belgian Pro League side KV Mechelen, with the 22 year old defender agreeing a three year contract with the club. Hjelde joined Sunderland in 2024 and was expected to thrive with the team, but he has played just 28 league games for the Black Cats. He spent last season on loan at Sheffield United, but United did not sign him permanently. Hjelde Leaves Sunderland With Sunderland having little space for him in their squad this summer, the defender has now been sold. According to the BBC, Hjelde has agreed a three-year deal with Mechelen and will now continue his career at a club where he can hope to get regular game time. At the Stadium of Light, Sunderland signed several top players after their promotion was confirmed, making it increasingly difficult for Hjelde to secure a place in the team. The competition for a starting position became too much for the former Norway U21 star, leading to his departure this summer. New Opportunity in Belgium The move to Mechelen allows Hjelde to rebuild his career by playing more regularly. After struggling to establish himself at Sunderland and spending last season on loan at Sheffield United, the defender can now focus on earning consistent opportunities with his new club. His departure also means there is one fewer Norwegian player in the English top flight. However, other Norwegian players could still move to the competition during this transfer window. For Hjelde, the transfer could provide the regular football he needs at this stage of his career. If he can establish himself in Belgium, he could potentially return to England in the future and join one of the top clubs. Sunderland, meanwhile, will continue reshaping their squad after bringing in several players following their promotion. Hjelde is one of the players to leave as the club makes room for its new arrivals, while Mechelen will hope his move can give him the platform to develop further and establish himself as an important player. The three-year agreement represents a fresh start for the defender, who will now look to make the most of his opportunity in the Belgian Pro League.