Sunderland have signed defender, Omar Alderete from Getafe in a £11.4m transfer.
Alderete’s arrival brings fresh defensive reinforcement with his versatile ability to play as both a centre-back and left-back, having scored twice in 99 appearances for Getafe across three seasons, albeit having spent 2022-23 season on loan before he joined permanently in 2023.
Sunderland have agreed a fixed £10.4m fee plus £1m in add-ons for the 28-year-old who has signed a four-year contract at the Stadium of Light, and Alderete is excited about his new opportunity with the number 15 shirt.
“I’m feeling great about signing for this great team, so I’m really happy. I’m looking forward to my first experience in the Premier League – it’s a great challenge for me. I know it’s a historic Club, and when they told me there was an opportunity, I was excited about coming here. It’s always important to have the support of the people, and I’m going to give it my all on the pitch.
Sporting Director, Kristjaan Speakman added that the Black Cats are “delighted” to welcome Alderete who can add experience in defence, especially on the left side.
“He’s a player with extensive experience in European Club football and at the international level. It was important for us to identify and add a left-sided centre back for the group, and ensure the profile was aligned to our game model.
“In Omar, we have an aggressive and athletic player who can move the ball efficiently in possession. He’s connected to our story and where we want to go, and naturally excited about the opportunity to play in the Premier League.”
Alderete began his career at Paraguay’s Cerro Porteno with one goal in 22 appearances, amidst a loan to Argentina’s Club de Gimnasia y Esgrima La Plata in 2017-18 season.
A brief one-season stint at Huracan followed before Alderete spent 18 months at Basel with four goals in 54 appearances, which was followed by a spell at Hertha Berlin in the first half of 2021 prior to a season-long loan at Valencia – which saw him score twice in 34 outings across 21-22 campaign.
22-23 season saw Alderete return to Spain but this time on loan at Getafe where he scored one goal in 28 appearances to earn a permanent transfer, which has since seen him go on to score a further goal in 71 more appearances over the last two seasons.