Sunderland have finally addressed their problem position with the signing of another striker. Nazariy Rusyn from Zorya Luhansk follows Chelsea striker Mason Burstow who arrived earlier in the day on loan.
The Ukrainian who has played for his country U21 level received his work permit earlier this week before having his medical. The transfer was confirmed via Sunderland’s official website safc.com and is subject to international clearance. Upon receiving this, Rusyn will travel to Sunderland to join his new team-mates.
The 24-year-old has been a long-term target this summer for the Black Cats and they have finally got their man. Rusyn scored 13 goals in 30 league appearances for Ukrainian top-flight side Zorya Lugansk last season.
The fee is undisclosed with the striker signing a four-year deal with the option of a further year.
Sunderland Sign Second Striker of Transfer Deadline Day
Ласкаво просимо, Русин 🇺🇦
We are delighted to announce that an agreement has been reached with Zorya Luhansk for the transfer of Nazariy Rusyn for an undisclosed fee.#SAFC
— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) September 1, 2023
New Signing to Take Pressure off Tony Mowbray and Squad
Sunderland, despite reaching the Championship playoffs last season, played much of the campaign without a recognised striker. Ross Stewart missed much of the season through injury and on-loan forward Ellis Simms was recalled by Everton in January leaving Tony Mowbray with few options up front despite the loan signing of Leeds United forward Joe Gelhardt.
For a large portion of last season and the beginning of the current one, Mowbray has decided to play with a false nine with the likes of Alex Pritchard, Jack Clarke and new summer signings Bradley Dack and youngster Jobe Bellingham playing in the role.
The signing of Rusyn therefore will take the pressure off Mowbray, his midfielders and the young and inexperienced strikers in and around the squad.
An international break will follow this weekend’s home game against Southampton, giving Tony Mowbray a chance to work with his new signing and the rest of his squad.
Sporting Director Reacts to New Signing
Sporting Director Kristjaan Speakman said: “Nazariy is a player that we’ve been tracking for some time and following a complex process that has unfolded throughout the summer, we are delighted to have concluded an agreement to bring him to the Club.
“He’s a dynamic and intelligent forward, who likes to exploit space, and he has consistently impacted a senior environment by contributing goals and assists. We look forward to supporting Nazariy as he adapts to life in a new environment, and we are excited to welcome him to the Stadium of Light.”
Featured image: Sunderland Stadium of Light courtesy of Wikimedia Commons User: The JPS
