Sunderland transfer news: Black Cats 'looking' to sign Championship goalkeeper as Robin Roefs competition

Sunderland are reportedly interested in signing Stoke City goalkeeper Viktor Johansson before the end of the summer transfer window.

The 26-year-old made a name for himself in the English game at Rotherham United, where he was unable to prevent their relegation despite consistent displays in net.

Johansson earned a move from Yorkshire to the Potteries in June 2024, signing for Championship outfit Stoke on a permanent deal.

Mark Robins's men have made an impressive start to the 2025-26 campaign, collecting nine points across their opening quartet of contests.

The super Swede has conceded just three goals so far in the Championship, keeping a clean sheet and providing an assist for Stoke's second goal in the victory at Southampton on August 23.

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Sunderland looking at Stoke star Johansson?

According to EFL Analysis, Stoke shot-stopper Johansson could be airlifted out of the Championship over the coming days.

The report claims that newly-promoted outfit Sunderland are looking at the potential signing of the 26-year-old before the conclusion of summer trading.

It is believed that the Black Cats want to recruit another goalkeeper prior to the September 1 deadline, despite the summer arrival of Robin Roefs from the Netherlands.

Understandably, the Potters are reluctant to part ways with Johansson, with head coach Mark Robins supposedly pleading with his higher-ups to dismiss offers for the player.

Those of a Stoke persuasion will be hoping that the 'keeper will be in net at the bet365 Stadium following the international break on September 13, when Birmingham City visit in the Championship.

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Sunderland's goalkeeping ranks

Since arriving near the beginning of the month from NEC Nijmegen in the Eredivisie, Roefs has assumed the role of first-choice goalkeeper for Sunderland.

As a result, last season's first-in-command Anthony Patterson has been forced to settle for a spot on the bench in the Premier League.

The arrival of Johansson at the Stadium of Light could force Patterson even further down the pecking order for the Black Cats.