Sunderland face a major summer striker decision after fresh European transfer interest emerged

Stade Rennais are making a strong push to sign Sunderland striker Eliezer Mayenda this summer, according to reports in France.

Foot Mercato claim the Ligue 1 side have set their sights on the 21-year-old as a new attacking target, with Rennes determined to make a splash in the summer transfer window. The report states that the Breton club want to sign Mayenda as they look to strengthen their forward options.

The latest development comes amid uncertainty over Mayenda’s future at the Stadium of Light. The Echo understands the forward wants to leave Sunderland this summer in search of regular game time, having found starting opportunities limited last season.

Mayenda remains under contract with Sunderland until 2030, meaning the Black Cats are in a strong negotiating position and are under no pressure to allow him to leave cheaply. However, Rennes’ interest now adds a fresh layer to the situation and could give the forward a potential route back to French football.

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The striker joined Sunderland from Sochaux in 2023 and went on to play a key role in the club’s promotion campaign, scoring the equaliser in the Championship play-off final against Sheffield United at Wembley. He also marked his Premier League debut with a goal in Sunderland’s opening-day win over West Ham United, but his involvement became more limited as the campaign progressed.

That lack of regular minutes is understood to be central to Mayenda’s thinking. At 21, the forward is keen to play consistently at an important stage of his development, and interest from Rennes could now test Sunderland’s resolve.

Any Sunderland decision will be shaped by valuation, squad planning and the club’s own attacking options heading into the new season. Mayenda’s age, contract length and potential mean the Black Cats retain significant control, but the latest report from France suggests his situation is now one to watch closely.

Rennes’ push is the freshest development in a transfer situation that already had the potential to move this summer. Regular football appears to be the priority for the player, but Sunderland’s challenge will be deciding whether a suitable deal can be struck without weakening their own squad.

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