Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs says his summer move to Wearside was sealed in just three days — and that he never hesitated once the club made their intentions clear.
Speaking to ELF Voetbal, the 22-year-old Dutchman explained that while several European sides showed interest after his strong season at NEC Nijmegen, Sunderland were the only club that offered him immediate first-team football. The Premier League side paid €10.5 million for his signature, making him one of their most astute summer signings.
“I heard the rumours, but I never heard of a club making an offer,” Roefs said. “Sunderland made it clear from the start. Their technical director told me they wanted me as first-choice goalkeeper. Everything came together in three days.”
Since arriving, Roefs has rewarded that faith in style — keeping four clean sheets in eight Premier League matches under Regis Le Bris and emerging as one of Sunderland’s early-season success stories.
How Sunderland won the transfer race
“At other clubs I would probably have had to start as second choice. Playing time was important to me. And of course, the Premier League is the strongest league in the world. Everything came together in three days.” — Robin Roefs, ELF Voetbal
Roefs revealed that clubs including Ajax, Napoli and West Ham were linked after his standout performances in the Eredivisie and at the U21 European Championship. However, none made a concrete move.
It was Sunderland’s clarity — and a trusted relationship between their technical director and his agency SEG — that sealed the deal. “They knew exactly what they wanted,” he said. “That made the decision easy.”
The Dutchman has since become one of the most reliable goalkeepers in the league, helping Sunderland rise into the top half of the table as they prepare to face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge later today.
Roefs’ rapid rise in numbers
| Stat (2025/26) | Robin Roefs |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 8 |
| Clean Sheets | 4 |
| Saves per Game | 3.4 |
| Save Percentage | 82% |
source: Sofascore match data – 25 October 2025
Those figures underline just how quickly Roefs has adapted to Premier League intensity. Calm on the ball and confident under pressure, he’s given Sunderland the stability that top-flight newcomers often lack.
Our View: Sunderland’s new No.1 looks a long-term gem
In our view, Sunderland’s transfer team deserve huge credit. Identifying Roefs early and acting decisively — within three days — reflects the clarity and conviction of their recruitment strategy.
The Dutchman has instantly justified the investment. His shot-stopping, composure and distribution have already drawn comparisons to more established names in the division. If Sunderland continue to progress under Le Bris, Roefs could easily become one of the Premier League’s breakout players this season.
Key Insights
- Robin Roefs says Sunderland sealed his transfer from NEC Nijmegen in just three days.
- The 22-year-old joined in a €10.5m deal after rejecting interest from Ajax, Napoli and West Ham.
- Sunderland made him first-choice goalkeeper immediately, a key factor in his decision.
- Roefs has kept four clean sheets in eight Premier League games under Regis Le Bris.
- Sunderland face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge later today.
What’s Next for Sunderland and Roefs
Sunderland head to Stamford Bridge today (25 October) for a major test against Chelsea, with Roefs set to start once again. His composure and reflexes will be crucial.
Looking further ahead, Sunderland hope to open early talks over a contract extension — a sign of how quickly the young Dutchman has become central to their project.
👉 Did Sunderland pull off one of the smartest Premier League signings of the summer with Robin Roefs?
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *