Sunderland transfer round-up: Masuaku and Xhaka interest plus Guendouzi, García, Gimenez and Spileers latest
Sunderland face fresh transfer rumours as exit reports and major January links surface...
Sunderland’s name continues to surface heavily in the European transfer rumour mill, with a host of players linked over the past 72 hours.
From reported interest in a return move for one summer signing to speculation involving continental talents in Italy, Spain and Belgium, here is the full picture as the January window edges closer.
Arthur Masuaku: Reports claim defender open to early exit
Reports in Turkey suggest Sunderland left-back Arthur Masuaku could consider leaving the club in January, just months after signing a two-year deal at the Stadium of Light. The 32-year-old has struggled for minutes under Régis Le Bris, featuring just three times in the Premier League since his arrival from Beşiktaş in August.
Sources in his homeland claim Masuaku has informed his representatives that he would be open to returning to Beşiktaş if the Turkish club were to make an offer. The defender is said to be in regular contact with former teammates and is believed to be disappointed by his lack of involvement so far on Wearside. Masuaku enjoyed a two-year spell in Istanbul and previously made over 75 appearances for West Ham United. Sunderland have not commented on the speculation.
Granit Xhaka: Juventus linked, but move considered impossible
In Italy, Granit Xhaka has unexpectedly been linked with a winter switch to Juventus. Reports there claim the Serie A giants could revisit interest they allegedly held in the summer. However, the likelihood of any mid-season departure remains extremely slim. Xhaka signed a major contract with Sunderland just months ago, bought into Kyril Louis-Dreyfus’ long-term project and has quickly become a talismanic figure under Le Bris.
He has captained the side, contributed four goal involvements, and is viewed as one of the pillars of Sunderland’s Premier League resurgence. Sunderland are not entertaining a sale, and the player is understood to be fully settled on Wearside.
Matteo Guendouzi: Le Bris connection reignites reports
Reports in Italy also claim Sunderland and other Premier League clubs have asked about the situation of Lazio midfielder Matteo Guendouzi. The Frenchman has grown frustrated with limited influence in Rome and may be available in January if Lazio looks to raise funds.
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Guendouzi previously played under Le Bris at Lorient and has spoken warmly about his impact, saying earlier this year: “A year with him is perhaps the equivalent of three with other coaches.” Lazio are said to value him at around £26.5million.
Gonzalo García: Real Madrid striker monitored
In Spain, Sunderland continue to be linked with Real Madrid forward Gonzalo García following multiple reports that Premier League clubs have contacted the La Liga side. The 21-year-old has had a standout year, scoring four goals at the FIFA Club World Cup before earning a first-team promotion and a new deal until 2030. Figures quoted across Europe suggest offers of around £17.6million may be required.
Santiago Gimenez: Sunderland enquire about AC Milan striker
Italian reports claim Sunderland and Brentford have enquired about AC Milan forward Santiago Gimenez, who joined from Feyenoord for around £28million. The 24-year-old has scored once in Serie A this season and may reassess his situation if Milan strengthen their forward line in January.
Jorne Spileers: Centre-back on the radar
In Belgium, Sunderland are again linked with Club Brugge defender Jorne Spileers. The 20-year-old signed a new deal until 2028 in the summer, meaning any move could cost upwards of £10.6million. Spileers has Champions League experience and is viewed as a long-term “Premier League-proof” option.
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