Kristjaan Speakman linked with incredible £72.1m Sunderland triple transfer swoop in January
European reports link Kristjaan Speakman with a major £72.1m Sunderland transfer push in January
Sunderland’s recruitment team continue to be linked with high-profile targets across Europe, with new reports in Italy and Spain placing the club in the mix for several major midfield and attacking additions.
The latest names pushed toward the Black Cats are Matteo Guendouzi, Real Madrid forward Gonzalo Garcia and AC Milan striker Santiago Gimenez. Their combined valuations amount to more than £72.1million.
Matteo Guendouzi: Le Bris connection resurfaces
Italian outlet Il Messaggero claim Sunderland and Aston Villa made enquiries for Matteo Guendouzi during the summer window, and the midfielder’s situation at Lazio may be revisited in January. The 26-year-old, previously on the books at Arsenal, has fallen down the France national team pecking order and is believed to be frustrated in Rome. With Lazio facing financial pressure, they may be open to bids, and the report suggests they could seek around £26.5million.
Guendouzi has already spoken warmly about his past with Sunderland head coach Regis Le Bris after their shared spell at Lorient. Speaking earlier this year, he said: “Honestly, his results at Sunderland don’t surprise me. A year with him is perhaps the equivalent of three with other coaches. Without him, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
Gonzalo Garcia: Real Madrid striker still on the radar
Spanish outlet Fichajes report that Sunderland, Aston Villa and Wolves have all made contact with Real Madrid regarding Gonzalo Garcia. The 21-year-old is attracting widespread interest after a standout year in Spain, and Madrid are said to be assessing approaches worth around £17.6million.
Sunderland were linked with Garcia several times during the summer as part of their long-term striker planning. He impressed at the FIFA Club World Cup with four goals, including strikes against Al Hilal, Red Bull Salzburg and a last-16 winner against Juventus. His form earned him a contract until 2030 and a full promotion into Madrid’s first team, although interest from England remains described as active by Spanish sources.
Santiago Gimenez: Sunderland enquire over £28m AC Milan forward
Reports in Italy also claim Sunderland have made an enquiry about AC Milan striker Santiago Gimenez. Brentford are said to have asked the same question. The Mexican international joined Milan from Feyenoord for around £28million but has found the transition difficult, with one goal in 11 league appearances so far.
The Echo has launched a new WhatsApp SAFC Channel to bring the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates direct to your phone. Simply click this link to join our SAFC WhatsApp channel.
CalcioMercato state that Milan are considering alternative forward options for January, although much depends on Gimenez himself and whether he is willing to leave. The same report adds: “Brentford and Sunderland have inquired and are interested in Bebote, who remains confident he can make a name for himself at AC Milan. AC Milan remains his priority for the present and future.”
With Guendouzi valued at £26.5million, Garcia at £17.6million and Gimenez at £28million, Sunderland have been linked with a combined £72.1million worth of talent this week alone. It highlights the scale of the names being placed around the club as Regis Le Bris continues to make waves in the Premier League. Sunderland return to action after the international break with a trip to Fulham, followed by a home fixture against Bournemouth.
Your next Sunderland read: Sunderland 'linked' with outrageous Barcelona transfer move – but £438m reality makes it inconceivable