With the Europa League awaiting them next season, Sunderland have the chance to take advantage of their new-found status in this summer’s transfer window and be more ambitious than ever.
They had already grabbed the headlines a year ago by bringing in the likes of Granit Xhaka. This was the kind of spending newly promoted teams rarely enjoy, but the Black Cats did not return to the top flight simply to join.
Better than Diarra: Sunderland seek to sign £25m midfielder
Sunderland are reportedly eyeing a star player who would be a better option than Khabib Diarra in midfield.
The cure for potential second season syndrome may again be costly. It would be a dramatic loss if the people of Wearside were to be struck by the deadly disease, but it is still unlikely that they will take the chance.
Summer is officially starting and I already have some goals in mind. The Black Cats are reportedly eyeing players such as Arne Engels, who is set to leave Celtic in the coming months.
The £25m midfielder would be a great addition alongside Xhaka and the focus this summer is likely to be on strengthening Regis Le Bris in the middle of the park.
Sunderland begin approach to sign World Cup star
Along with Engels, the Black Cats are also keeping an eye on the World Cup star. According to 225 Foot, broadcast by Sport Witness, Sunderland have made contact with Christo Inao Ourai, who currently plays a key role in the Ivory Coast’s midfield, with a view to signing him.
Stadium of Light officials have already completed an extensive scouting mission on the 20-year-old and contacted his agent, but they are not the only ones in the competition. Fulham and Brentford have also done the same, which could spark a war for Trabzonspor’s star.
25/26 | Inao Urai | Xhaka |
|---|---|---|
minutes | 2,077 | 2,903 |
the goal | 2 | 1 |
tackle | 49 | 50 |
collect | 124 | 179 |
Successful duel | 55.5% | 60.3% |
It’s easy to see why Sunderland would target Inao Ulai, described by scout Jacek Kulig as “unbelievable”. The young star has the potential to eventually surpass Xhaka on Wearside and almost matched his impressive numbers last season despite playing fewer minutes.
The 20-year-old is currently enjoying impressive results at the World Cup and could end up making his way to the Premier League sooner rather than later.
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