It was only a week before he actually signed for Sunderland that he learnt of the transfer interest from the Black Cats.
Then, after officially joining last Friday and meeting his new teammates for the first time, he was thrown straight into the side to make his debut between the posts in the friendly against Real Betis the following day.
“It was only my first training session the day before,” said the 22-year-old.
“So there were still a few things to get used to – names, instructions, details – but I think the fastest way to get to know each other is by playing together. That’s how you build relationships.
“It all happened really fast. I only found out about the club’s interest about a week before I arrived.
“But since getting here, it’s been easy to settle in. The lads have been really welcoming and the atmosphere is good – everyone is focused on what’s ahead.”
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Roefs’ arrival ended summer-long search for a new goalkeeper that saw Sunderland fail in their efforts to sign to Marcin Bulka, who joined Saudi Arabian side Neom FC, and Djordje Petrovic, who headed for Bournemouth.
Roefs was always in Sunderland’s thinking, however, with the club’s recruitment team having monitored closely as he enjoyed a breakthrough season at NEC Nijmegen and impressed for the Netherlands in the European Under-21 Championships earlier this summer.
“Last season was my first real season as first goalkeeper,” said Roefs in conversation with the club website.
“I was really happy with how it went. The stats were good at the end of the season and I was really happy.
“For me, representing my country at the Euros was a big thing. We went to win so it was a bit disappointing we didn’t win, but for me it was a great experience and I was able to show myself to the rest of the Europe.”
It helped Roefs earned a move he’s dreamed about.
“It’s a dream come true to play in the Premier League and to be at such a big club with big history,” he said.
Roefs’ transition has been helped by a familiar face and an old friend, with the goalkeeper having previously played alongside Sunderland defender Jenson Seelt.
“We played together for four or five years. I was really looking forward to seeing him and spoke to him before I came,” he said.
Roefs has also very quickly got to know head of goalkeeping Neil Cutler.
“He’s really open, really communicative, and I like that,” he said.
“Even after games, he doesn’t go too deep into details – he just puts an arm around you and gives you what you need.”
Roefs will compete for the gloves with Anthony Patterson, who has been sidelined with injury during pre-season, and it’s not clear at this stage who will start the campaign as first choice.
Regis Le Bris said last week Patterson “has a chance” of being fit for the opener against West Ham.
Sunderland wrap up their pre-season campaign with friendlies against Augsburg and Rayo Vallecano this weekend.
