Sunderland, Everton and Celtic in £4.4m transfer race as European giants circle midfielder – reports
Sunderland have reportedly sent scouts to monitor highly-rated BK Häcken midfielder Abdoulaye Doumbia, who is attracting interest from several European clubs
Sunderland are among a host of European clubs credited with an interest in BK Häcken midfielder Abdoulaye Doumbia ahead of the January transfer window.
According to Africafoot, the Black Cats have sent representatives to watch the 19-year-old Ivorian in action, alongside fellow Premier League clubs Everton and Coventry City. Bayer Leverkusen, Celtic, Club Brugge, Strasbourg, Paris FC, Freiburg, Nice and Lens are also named among the clubs monitoring Doumbia, who has impressed during his debut season in Swedish football.
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The youngster joined Häcken from Ivorian outfit ASEC Mimosas ahead of the 2026 campaign and has quickly established himself as an important member of the side. Doumbia has made 24 appearances in the Swedish top flight this season, starting 23 matches and contributing two goals and three assists. Predominantly a defensive midfielder, he has attracted attention for his ability to regain possession, distribute the ball and contribute to attacking phases of play.
Abdoulaye Doumbia valuation and BK Häcken transfer stance
Africafoot reports that Doumbia's market valuation has risen to approximately £4.4million, although that figure should not be confused with Häcken's asking price. Turkish reports previously suggested Trabzonspor were considering a bid worth approximately £4.4million, but Africafoot has since disputed suggestions that the Turkish club are actively pursuing the midfielder.
Any interested club could face a significant challenge securing his signature, with Doumbia under contract until 2030. Häcken sporting director Erik Friberg previously acknowledged widespread interest in the teenager, suggesting that relatively few clubs would have the financial resources required to complete a transfer. Friberg also expressed a desire to retain Doumbia for another 18 months to two years, potentially complicating any January approach.
Sunderland significantly strengthened their midfield during the summer, recruiting Granit Xhaka, Habib Diarra, Noah Sadiki and Jules Ahoka. However, the Black Cats have consistently targeted promising young players with considerable development potential. There is currently no suggestion that Sunderland have submitted an offer or opened formal negotiations with Häcken, with their reported interest understood to be at the scouting stage.