Kevin Danso to Sunderland: £25m Deal, Medical & Why Spurs Are Letting Him Go

The Austria international has agreed to the move, with Sunderland booking his medical as the Black Cats push to complete the transfer before the deadline. The agreement represents a significant investment in Régis Le Bris' defence as Sunderland strengthen ahead of a demanding Premier League and European campaign.

Why Sunderland Are Spending £25m on Danso

Sunderland have been looking to strengthen at centre-back, and Danso offers something difficult to find: Premier League experience combined with physical presence and European pedigree.

The 27-year-old joined Tottenham from Lens in 2025 after initially arriving on loan, with Spurs subsequently making the deal permanent. He made 36 appearances during the 2025/26 campaign and played a role in Tottenham's Europa League-winning season.

For Sunderland, his arrival would immediately add experience to a squad preparing for the demands of competing on multiple fronts.

Danso's Tottenham Exit Explained

Danso's departure is largely a consequence of Tottenham's defensive reshuffle.

Spurs have strengthened their centre-back options with Jan Paul van Hecke and Marcos Senesi, while Micky van de Ven remains an important part of the defence. Danso's opportunities were therefore expected to become more limited.

Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi also confirmed that Danso had asked to leave the club, making a late transfer increasingly likely.

The move now appears to suit all sides: Sunderland get an experienced defender, while Danso gets the opportunity for regular first-team football.

Sunderland's Defensive Upgrade

Danso's profile could be particularly valuable for Le Bris.

The Austrian is a 6ft 3in centre-back who has experience playing in England, France and Germany, as well as at international level with Austria. Tottenham's official profile notes his previous spells with Southampton and Fortuna His arrival also gives Sunderland another defender capable of handling the physical demands of Premier League football while providing experience for the club's European campaign.

What Happens Next?

The key remaining step is Danso's medical, which Sunderland have already booked.

Once that is completed and the paperwork is finalized, the Austrian is expected to become a Sunderland player on loan, with the obligation to buy taking the eventual transfer value to approximately £25m.

The move also helps explain Tottenham's simultaneous pursuit of Tosin Adarabioyo, with Spurs moving quickly to bring in defensive cover as Danso heads for the exit.

For Sunderland, meanwhile, the message is clear: Danso is not simply a short-term loan signing — the £25m obligation makes him a major part of the club's long-term defensive plans.