Congolese Midfielder Close to Sunderland Transfer
20-year-old Congolese midfielder Jules Ahoka is on the verge of leaving Antwerp. The club is negotiating with Sunderland over a transfer with a fee exceeding 10 million euros. Ahoka has not been included in the matchday squad since Saturday, indicating that transfer talks are far advanced.
From Unknown Talent to Key Player
Ahoka joined Antwerp in September 2025 after being plucked from AC Normands Sport in Congo. He made his breakthrough at the end of the previous season with 90 minutes in his debut against Genk on May 19, 2026. In the current season, he has already played twice for the first team. His contract runs until June 30, 2029, but Antwerp wants to sell him.
Antwerp Wanted to Keep Him
Although Antwerp wanted to keep Ahoka for longer, financial pressure to sell players is significant. The midfielder and his entourage strongly push for a transfer to England. Sunderland seems to be an increasingly concrete destination. The interest comes after a strong season start, where his physical qualities and technical abilities have made an impression.
