Kristjaaan Speakman linked with £86.8m quadruple Sunderland transfer deal during January window – round-up

Sunderland’s January transfer plans continue to take shape as the window moves into its middle phase, with the Black Cats assessing options both in and out of the squad as they look to strengthen for the second half of the season.

With two weeks of the window gone, Sunderland are understood to be eyeing reinforcements in a couple of key positions if the right deals can be completed, while also remaining open to outgoings that fit the club’s long-term strategy. As ever, the focus remains on value, profile and sustainability rather than short-term fixes.

Defensive options assessed and full-back exit links

At the back, Sunderland have been linked with a number of defensive options as they monitor the market. Reports from Spain have suggested a surprise interest in senior Real Madrid defender Ferland Mendy, with speculation centring on a player who once commanded a fee of more than £45million. It is reported that Mendy could cost Sunderland as little as £9.5million.

Elsewhere, Sunderland’s long-standing interest in £26million-rated defender Jhon Lucumí has resurfaced in parts of the Italian media. The Bologna centre-back was a priority target during the summer, but the Serie A club resisted multiple bids. While uncertainty remains around his contract situation, Sunderland are believed to be focusing on other defensive profiles for now after securing Lutsharel Geertruida on loan last summer, with an option to make that move permanent.

The Echo has launched a new WhatsApp SAFC channel to bring the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates directly to your phone. Simply click this link to join our SAFC WhatsApp channel.

There has also been speculation around Arthur Masuaku, with reports suggesting talks are ongoing over a possible move away from the Stadium of Light. The DR Congo international is currently away at the Africa Cup of Nations, and any decision is likely to be taken once his international commitments are complete. Sunderland are understood to be open to exploring options if a solution suits both player and club.

Attacking links continue duirng January transfer window

In attack, Sunderland have again been linked with forwards across Europe as they plan for both the short and longer term. French reports have claimed the club are monitoring £17.3million-rated Lucas Stassin of AS Saint-Étienne, with the 21-year-old viewed as a profile that fits Régis Le Bris’ approach. Any move is more likely to be explored in the summer, given Saint-Étienne’s promotion push and the expected fee involved.

There has also been wider Premier League chatter around experienced forwards potentially becoming available, with £34million striker Tammy Abraham is emerging as a possible target this month. The striker is currently on loan at Beşiktaş from Roma, where he has enjoyed a productive spell, scoring 12 goals in 24 appearances across all competitions. Roma are understood to be open to allowing Abraham to return to England, though Beşiktaş would need to be compensated if his loan were to be cut short.

The Echo has launched a new WhatsApp SAFC channel to bring the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates directly to your phone. Simply click this link to join our SAFC WhatsApp channel.

Aston Villa are among the clubs credited with interest, with the forward having enjoyed a prolific 2018-19 campaign at Villa Park, scoring 25 goals during a loan spell. Unai Emery is believed to be assessing attacking options to provide competition and cover for Ollie Watkins. There is also wider Premier League interest, with Everton, Crystal Palace, Nottingham Forest, Leeds United, and Sunderland all reportedly being made aware of his availability.

Midfield movement, Luke O’Nien and and former player interest

In midfield, attention has turned to potential exits. Ben Middlemas is close to completing a permanent move to Swindon Town, with talks advancing on both a fee and personal terms. The 21-year-old has been a key figure for Sunderland’s Under-21 side but is now set for a chance to establish himself in senior football as Swindon push for promotion under Ian Holloway.

Elsewhere, former Sunderland midfielder Nectarios Triantis has been linked with a possible return to English football. Reports suggest West Bromwich Albion could consider a move following the appointment of Eric Ramsay, who previously worked with Triantis at Minnesota United. While that situation does not directly impact Sunderland’s current squad, it underlines the continued interest in players developed on Wearside.

One piece of clarity this week came from Luke O’Nien, who firmly dismissed suggestions he could leave this month. Speaking after the FA Cup win over Everton, O’Nien was emphatic that he is “going absolutely nowhere” amid links to Birmingham City, Coventry City and West Bromwich Albion.

What happens next at Sunderland during the January window?

As the window enters a crucial period, Sunderland remain calm rather than reactive. Reinforcements are being explored in defence and attack, but only if the right opportunities arise. Outgoings, meanwhile, will continue to be assessed on a case-by-case basis, particularly for younger players seeking regular senior football.

With Premier League survival, squad evolution and long-term planning all in mind, Sunderland’s January business looks set to be measured rather than dramatic – but the coming weeks could still bring movement if the right deals fall into place.

Your next Sunderland read: 75 incredible photos of 7,732 Sunderland fans as Robin Roefs steals the show at Everton in FA Cup – gallery