Brazilian winger Igor Paixao has reflected on the collapse of his proposed transfer to Sunderland during the recent summer transfer window, reaffirming his desire to eventually play in the Premier League. The 26-year-old, who plays for French club Marseille, was reportedly valued at around £35 million, with Sunderland pursuing his signature in the closing stages of the window.

Negotiations between Sunderland and Marseille reportedly progressed significantly, but ultimately the French club opted to retain Paixao amid a challenging financial situation. Marseille had placed a number of players on the transfer list as they sought to balance their books. Paixao explained he was content to remain with the Ligue 1 side, citing the club’s inability to bring in replacements as a key factor in his decision.

“I didn’t want to leave, I still don’t want to leave,” Paixao told Brazilian media outlet Band. “It was a bit intense, with the club putting all of the players on the transfer list. I chose to stay to help my team. We can’t recruit new players, there wouldn’t have been replacements.”

Sunderland instead focused on strengthening their squad with the acquisition of Lyon winger Malick Fofana, securing the 21-year-old on deadline day for approximately £31 million. The move followed Sunderland’s reported interest in Paixao as they sought to bolster their attacking options for the upcoming season.

Despite remaining at Marseille, Paixao has left the prospect of a future move to England open, describing the Premier League as a “dream” and expressing optimism that a strong season in France could generate further opportunities next summer. His comments suggest a potential return to the transfer market as Sunderland and other clubs continue to monitor his progress.