Ghana midfielder Salis Abdul Samed has joined English side Sunderland on loan for the remainder of the season.

The transfer, confirmed on Friday, does not include an option for a permanent move, according to his French club RC Lens.

The 24-year-old Abdul Samed had attracted interest from several French clubs but opted for a move to England.

He initially joined Lens in June 2022 for a reported 5 million euros, signing a five-year contract.

He made a strong debut that August and scored his first goal shortly after. However, despite making 39 appearances last season, including in the Champions League and Europa League, he has fallen out of favour under new manager Will Still, being demoted to the reserves.

While clubs like FC Nantes, Stade Brestois, and AS Saint-Ettienne showed interest, Sunderland secured the loan deal on transfer deadline day.

Abdul Samed's current market value is estimated at 8 million euros by Transfermarkt, highlighting his potential value to the Black Cats.