Leo Hjelde arrived at Sunderland as an investment for the future, but his career there now appears to be ending without a single Premier League cameo.

The Norwegian defender joined from Leeds in January 2024, signing a contract until 2028. His ability to operate at centre back or left back made him an attractive addition to a young Sunderland squad.

Hjelde got some first team opportunities initially.

He made 11 Championship appearances during the remainder of his first season and then made 19 appearances in all competitions as Sunderland won promotion in 24/25.

His campaign included difficult moments, but he remained involved during the decisive run. Hjelde made a late appearance in the second play-off semi-final against Coventry before Sunderland defeated Sheffield United at Wembley.

That success should have provided a platform for him to develop.

Instead, an Achilles injury required surgery and ruined his chance to impress during Sunderland's return to the Premier League. He did not make a senior appearance during the opening half of last season and slipped behind several defenders in Régis Le Bris' plans.

Sunderland sent him to Sheffield United in February in search of regular football.

The move brought little momentum. Hjelde featured eight times in the Championship, largely through substitute appearances, before returning to Wearside at the end of the campaign.

Dan Ballard and Omar Alderete are clearly ahead of him, while Nordi Mukiele and Luke O'Nien can also operate centrally. Sunderland are preparing for Premier League and Europa League football, but that demanding schedule does not guarantee meaningful minutes for every squad player.

At 22, Hjelde needs to play rather than remain on the fringes, and Belgium could now provide the fresh start he needs.

Sunderland agree deal with KV Mechelen to sell Leo Hjelde

Walfoot reports that Sunderland and KV Mechelen have reached an agreement for Hjelde to move to the Belgian club permanently.

The transfer fee has not been revealed, but Sunderland are expected to retain a sell-on clause. That would allow the Black Cats to benefit financially if Hjelde develops and earns a larger transfer in the future.

The report, which follows information from Belgian transfer journalist Sacha Tavolieri, adds that Hjelde is set to sign a four-year contract.

KV Mechelen can offer something Sunderland currently cannot: a realistic opportunity to establish himself as an important first-team defender.

Hjelde's size, left foot and positional flexibility should suit the Belgian Pro League, where younger players are regularly trusted and developed.

For Sunderland, the agreement removes a player who was unlikely to feature and creates another space within Le Bris' squad.

The undisclosed fee means the immediate financial return remains unclear. However, retaining a percentage of any future sale protects Sunderland if Hjelde finally delivers on the promise which first attracted Celtic, Leeds and the Black Cats.

After two disrupted years, a clean break looks sensible for everyone involved.