Burnley have won the race to sign Ivorian winger Jocelin Ta Bi on loan from Sunderland ahead of Tuesday's transfer deadline. The Clarets have moved ahead of several Championship rivals, including West Ham, to secure the 20-year-old's services.
Nick Hayen's side, currently 22nd in the Championship with just one point from three games, are looking for a spark after a win-less start. The potential arrival of Ta Bi offers a fresh option for a squad also missing Josh Cullen and Lyle Foster through injury.
Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris had initially suggested the young winger could stay and compete for a first-team place at the Stadium of Light. His stance softened last week, however, when he acknowledged a loan move was a real possibility. "It's still possible," Le Bris said when questioned about a departure. He added, "We like his profile. A big profile with huge potential for the position and exactly the characteristics you need, but he needs time to develop." Le Bris stressed that regular game time would be essential if Ta Bi were to leave, indicating development was the priority for the player Sunderland signed in January 2026.
The Ivorian attacker is known for his pace, skill, and direct ability to beat defenders. He joined Sunderland from Hapoel Petah Tikva, where he scored five goals in 27 appearances, and impressed for his country at the 2026 Maurice Revello Tournament. His progress in England was disrupted by an injury suffered after his FA Cup debut against Oxford United, though he did start a Premier League match against Fulham. A loan spell at Turf Moor is seen as beneficial for both his development and for Sunderland, who are looking to strengthen their own wide areas.
For Burnley, the move addresses a clear need. The Clarets have only Marcus Edwards as a natural right-sided winger, with Jacob Bruun Larsen having been deployed there. New signing Dastan Satpayev has featured on the left. Adding Ta Bi provides Hayen with more depth and a different profile in the final third as they seek to improve on a record of four goals scored and nine conceded this season.
The pursuit of Ta Bi comes amid other squad news, including ongoing speculation around the future of Zian Flemming. More immediately, the club is eight points behind league leaders Charlton and desperately needs to turn its form around after a start that reads zero wins, one draw, and two losses. Securing a dynamic wide player like Ta Bi could be a step towards addressing those attacking shortcomings and providing a boost ahead of a critical period.
The deal, which could include an option for a permanent switch, represents a proactive move in the market. Burnley have acted decisively to see off competition from Watford, who had explored a loan, and several Ligue 1 sides. With the deadline fast approaching, finalising this signing would give Hayen a new tool as he works to lift the team from the lower reaches of the table. Fans can monitor the latest squad updates, including this potential addition, on our dedicated squad page.
