Sunderland are working to resolve a visa issue delaying the arrival of new striker Juan Riquelme Angulo. Sporting director Florent Ghisolfi provided the update to The Northern Echo, confirming the 18-year-old Ecuadorian is yet to travel after his deadline-day move from Independiente del Valle.
Ghisolfi said the club hopes the situation will be sorted imminently. "We are working on the the visa and I think he will travel this week," he stated. Sunderland currently sit 12th in the Premier League with four points from their opening three matches, a record of one win, one draw and one loss. They have scored three goals and conceded three, leaving them with a zero goal difference as they prepare for their next fixtures, a home clash with second-placed Arsenal on September 12.
Sunderland's pursuit of Juan Riquelme Angulo was a prolonged affair throughout the summer. The young forward was a key target for the Black Cats, but his club in Ecuador was desperate to keep him. Independiente del Valle initially wanted to delay any transfer until December due to their ongoing commitments in the Copa Libertadores tournament. However, Sunderland's persistence and their ability to offer a clear pathway to first-team football eventually convinced the player. Angulo had long held a dream of playing in the Premier League and reportedly had a good feeling about joining the Wearside club.
Florent Ghisolfi is excited by the potential of the teenage striker, believing he is a good fit for the club's style. Angulo made his senior debut for Independiente del Valle in March of this year and marked the occasion with a goal. His impressive form continued, earning him a first call-up to the Ecuador national team later that same month. In his homeland this season, he scored six goals in 15 appearances, averaging a strike every 115 minutes. His arrival is intended to bolster an attack that will be without the sidelined Habib Diarra.
The immediate focus is on finalising Angulo's travel documents. Ghisolfi noted the player had been on Sunderland's radar for a considerable time. "He was on the radar for a long time and wanted to come for a long time," the sporting director said. All parties are now anticipating his arrival on Wearside in the coming days. Once he lands, he will begin the process of integration with a squad that is five points behind league leaders Manchester City in the early standings.
Angulo's primary position is as a central striker, an area where Sunderland will be looking for more consistent output. His pace and finishing ability could offer a different option for the manager. The club's upcoming schedule is demanding, and adding a fresh attacking talent provides more depth and competition. Supporters eager to see the new signing will likely get their first glimpse in training shortly, with his official debut timeline dependent on his fitness and adaptation. The team's next challenge is a Premier League fixture at home to Arsenal this Saturday.
