Sunderland officially announce the signing of Royal Antwerp's Democratic Republic of Congo wonderkid Jules Ahoka..

Sunderland announced on their official website on Thursday that they have signed Royal Antwerp's Democratic Republic of Congo international midfielder wonderkid Jules Ahoka.

According to Sunderland's official statement, Ahoka has signed on a long-term five-year deal with the club which runs until the summer of 2031. He will also wear the number 29 shirt.

After completing his transfer procedures, Ahoka, who was interviewed by the Sunderland official website for the first time, said: "I am very happy and proud to join Sunderland."

"This is a big, ambitious club in the Premier League, and I am delighted to be here."

"I am eager to train hard, learn from my teammates and the coaching staff, and continuously improve myself."

"I will give my all for the club, and I can't wait to get started."

About Jules Ahoka

Ahoka, who is only still 20 years old, was born on May 8, 2006, in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo. He is 1.90 meters tall and primarily plays as a defensive midfielder, but can also play as a center-back or attacking midfielder.

Ahoka joined the youth academy of a local non-league club in the Democratic Republic of Congo at a young age. In 2025, he was scouted by Royal Antwerp and joined their youth academy.

A few weeks ago (August 9, 2026), Ahoka completed his Royal Antwerp first-team debut by coming on as a substitute.

Prior to this, his outstanding performances for the club's U21s team earned him the media's nickname, "the DR Congolese Jude Bellingham."

Last season, Ahoka made 15 appearances for the Jupiler Pro League powerhouse's U21s team in all competitions and provided one assist.

Image source: Internet / Sunderland official website