Sunderland AFC is delighted to announce the signing of Robin Roefs, subject to international clearance. The 22-year-old goalkeeper arrives from Dutch side NEC Nijmegen for an undisclosed fee and signs a five-year contract at the Stadium of Light. Prior to arriving on Wearside, Roefs enjoyed a breakout season in the Eredivisie last term, making 32 appearances and keeping 10 clean sheets. His performances played a pivotal role in a successful campaign for NEC, who’s eighth-place finish secured a spot in the 2025-26 UEFA Europa Conference League. Roefs has also made his presence felt on the international stage, making 10 appearances for Netherlands Under-21s, including five at the 2025 UEFA European Under-21 Championship as Jong Oranje reached the semi-finals. Speaking about his move to SAFC, he said: “It feels really good to have signed for Sunderland. Joining such a big Club with a rich history is a proud moment for me, and I’m excited for the challenge ahead in the Premier League. Last season was my first real experience as a senior goalkeeper, and I was happy with how it went, especially with the stats at the end of the campaign. To be part of this journey at a Club like Sunderland is really special, and I’m looking forward to the campaign ahead.” Kristjaan Speakman added: “Robin is a talented young goalkeeper, who has been in high demand this summer after an impressive season in the Eredivisie. Right from our opening conversations, his desire to join Sunderland was clear and we are delighted that he’s now a member of our team. This was an area of our squad where we wanted increased competition and he has all the attributes to play at the highest level, so we’re looking forward to working with him to ensure he achieves that outcome at the Stadium of Light.”
Signings are not a simple case of 'b' follows 'a' and 'c' follows 'b'. We have "irons in the fire", it may take time to get them "over the line", but it doesn't mean we're not prioritising them.
If that’s to happen we need to bring in another. I don’t want Moore anywhere near the starting 11. At all.
Genuine question have we only signed one player that wouldn’t have been playing European football if they had stayed at their previous clubs
I’ve long been of the opinion that competition for goalkeeper is a load of nonsense. Clubs pretend it’s there but it really isn’t. There’s a clear hierarchy and short of catastrophic drops in form, it just doesn’t change outside of summer windows. I guess there’s always a chance that Roefs doesn’t settle, or massively underwhelms once he’s in the PL, but if he does well then Patto never gets in again. As such we’d probably be better off allowing him to go off and get a starting shirt somewhere else.
Would be handy for PSR if he doesn't look like starting. Will be some value in him if not loads. Same for Neil if that contract doesn't get signed.