While Chris Rigg and Wilson Isidor have garnered attention for their impressive goal-scoring performances, one Sunderland player has quietly made an impact, flying under the radar. The focus on Wearside has primarily been on Sunderland’s young assets, and with good reason—the club boasts a wealth of emerging talent that has been shining brightly in the Championship this season.

However, Chris Mepham has established himself as one of the Championship’s top centre-backs. Although Sunderland faces challenges in securing the defender on a permanent deal, achieving promotion could resolve these obstacles and make the move more feasible.

Chris Mepham has been integral to Sunderland’s success, playing a crucial role in their defensive lineup and contributing to the team’s overall performance in the Championship. His leadership and skills at the back have helped solidify Sunderland’s position as a competitive force this season.

Since his summer transfer from Premier League club Bournemouth, Chris Mepham has thrived in the heart of Sunderland’s defense. The 26-year-old joined on deadline day following an injury to Aji Alese, who is still unavailable. Although the circumstances surrounding his arrival were unfortunate, Sunderland is now benefiting from his presence.

Many anticipated that Mepham would stand out in the Championship, but he initially had to wait for his chance as Luke O’Nien and Dan Ballard were the preferred centre-back duo. However, once given the opportunity, he quickly showcased his quality and importance to the team.

Inevitably, Chris Mepham’s opportunity arose following an injury to Dan Ballard, who, like Aji Alese, has faced significant struggles with fitness. Since making his debut as a loanee from Bournemouth, Mepham has firmly established himself in the centre-back role, forming a strong partnership with fan favorite Luke O’Nien.

Mepham has consistently proven to be a cut above the rest at the Championship level, showcasing his authoritative presence on the pitch. The 26-year-old has displayed remarkable composure both in and out of possession and has been exceptional in tackles, further solidifying his importance to Sunderland’s defensive unit.

Mepham’s wages could pose a challenge for Sunderland as they look to secure him on a permanent deal. Given his status as a player who has proven himself in the Championship and previously in the Premier League, his salary demands may exceed what the club is willing or able to pay. This financial consideration could complicate efforts to retain him long-term, especially if other clubs show interest in signing the talented defender.

Credit must go to Sunderland’s hierarchy for maintaining a significantly low wage bill in the Championship. According to Capology, the club’s highest-earning permanent player is Dan Ballard, estimated to earn £25,000 a week. While this figure is only an estimation, it stands in stark contrast to the exorbitant wages the club once offered.

Interestingly, the website also suggests that Chris Mepham is currently the club’s highest earner at £35,000 a week. However, it remains unclear what percentage of his salary Sunderland is actually covering, as he joined on loan from Bournemouth. This financial structure has allowed Sunderland to navigate the challenges of player wages while still attracting quality talent like Mepham.

Considering how shrewd Kristjaan Speakman has been in negotiating players’ wages, it is unlikely that Sunderland is covering the entirety of Chris Mepham’s weekly salary. The Black Cats’ hierarchy has consistently demonstrated a reluctance to overpay for players, adhering to a strict wage structure under Kyril Louis-Dreyfus.

This approach could create a potential stumbling block in their efforts to secure Mepham on a permanent basis. If Sunderland fails to achieve promotion this season, acquiring the talented defender from Bournemouth could become increasingly difficult, particularly if his wage demands remain high and other clubs show interest in him.

Promotion to the Premier League would provide a clear solution for Sunderland in their pursuit of Chris Mepham. Should the Black Cats secure a spot in the top flight, they would have increased financial resources and a greater ability to meet the defender’s wage demands. This scenario would not only make it feasible for Sunderland to retain Mepham but would also enhance the club’s appeal to other quality players.

Competing at the Premier League level would likely justify higher salary offerings, making it easier for Sunderland to negotiate a permanent deal for Mepham, who has proven himself to be a vital asset in their defense. Securing promotion would align with the club’s ambitions and significantly bolster their chances of retaining key players like Mepham for the long term.

If Sunderland were to achieve promotion to the Premier League, securing a permanent deal for Chris Mepham would become significantly more attainable. Promotion would likely enable the Black Cats to operate with a higher wage bill, allowing them to at least match the 26-year-old’s salary at Bournemouth.

While it’s expected that Kristjaan Speakman would maintain a disciplined wage structure similar to the one currently in place, the demands of Premier League football may necessitate an adjusted approach. This could involve more flexibility in salary negotiations to attract and retain top talent like Mepham, ensuring that the squad is competitive at the highest level. Thus, achieving promotion could pave the way for Sunderland to bolster their defense and solidify their position in the Premier League.

Of course, this scenario remains hypothetical, and given Chris Mepham’s impressive impact at Sunderland, he will likely attract interest from various clubs willing to offer him more lucrative deals. However, Sunderland fans can remain optimistic that the defender may wish to continue his successful stint on Wearside, especially considering the positive rapport he has built with teammates and supporters alike. If the Black Cats secure promotion, it could further entice Mepham to remain, as he would be competing at a higher level while still playing a crucial role in a team where he has flourished.

Chris Mepham has been immense since signing on loan from Bournemouth, quickly establishing himself as one of the first names on Régis Le Bris’ team sheet. The Black Cats are eager to turn his loan deal into a permanent transfer but recognize that promotion will likely be the key to securing his services long-term.

For now, Sunderland fans can revel in the Welshman’s standout performances and hope that he will become a regular fixture at the club for years to come. His contributions have not only strengthened the defense but also ignited hopes of a successful campaign, making him a vital part of Sunderland’s ambitions moving forward.