Reports have linked Sunderland with two high-profile moves as January transfer talk gathers pace

Sunderland have again been linked with Jhon Lucumí, with fresh reports from Italy suggesting the Black Cats are prepared to revisit discussions with Bologna.

Journalist Nicolò Schira has claimed Sunderland could look to re-open talks after last summer’s negotiations, during which the Colombian international was identified as a priority defensive target. Bologna are reported to be holding out for a fee in the region of €30million (£26million), with Lucumí having so far declined an offer to extend his contract, which currently runs until 2027.

Lucumí was the subject of multiple bids from Sunderland during the previous window, but Bologna were reluctant to sell after already sanctioning several first-team departures, including centre-back Sam Beukema’s move to Napoli. Despite public comments from the defender’s representatives urging Bologna to reconsider their stance, no agreement was reached.

While Lucumí has since re-established himself in Bologna’s starting XI, uncertainty remains over his long-term future given the lack of progress on a new deal. However, sources on Wearside previously played down the prospect of a January return for Sunderland, with the club instead focusing on alternative defensive options after securing Lutsharel Geertruida on loan from RB Leipzig, with an option to make that move permanent.

Tammy Abraham attracting Premier League interest

Elsewhere, Tammy Abraham is emerging as a possible Premier League target this month, with multiple clubs monitoring his situation.

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.

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Aston Villa are among the clubs credited with interest by TEAMtalk, 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.

Everton’s interest is particularly notable given their shared ownership with Roma under The Friedkin Group, while Abraham himself is believed to be keen on a return to English football as he looks to force his way back into England contention ahead of the next World Cup cycle. Intermediaries are reportedly exploring options, with several clubs assessing the financial and structural complexities of any potential deal.

Sunderland are next in action against Crystal Palace in the Premier League at the Stadium of Light this Saturday, following last weekend’s penalty shootout win at Everton in the FA Cup.

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