Sunderland’s transfer window has once again been overshadowed by their constant search for new attackers.
While the Black Cats are focussing on bringing in a new striker, that hasn’t stopped them looking to recruit wide-players too.
Sunderland have managed to keep hold of Jack Clarke so far this summer, but there is still the real possibility that a Premier League club comes in for him in the final weeks before deadline day.
The Wearside outfit are already looking at potential replacements for Clarke and have this week been linked with a move for Burnley winger Manuel Benson.
The ‘electric’ Belgian joined the Clarets in 2022 and picked up 17 goal contributions in all competitions in his first season, as he helped them win promotion.
Benson struggled for game-time in the Premier League though, making only one start and a total of eight appearances.
The 27-year-old was an unused substitute in their win over Luton Town and now looks like he could be on his way out, with Sunderland joined by Leeds and Norwich in their pursuit.
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Sunderland target praised by Bundesliga winner
Benson has done very little since his debut campaign at Turf Moor, but is definitely very highly thought of in the EFL.
The attacker was even compared to an eight-time Bundesliga winner after he scored his eighth league goal of the 2022/23 campaign in a 2-2 draw with Rotherham United.
As per Football League World, former Burnley teammate and Bayer Leverkusen forward Nathan Tella wrote on his Instagram: “Robben”.
The Dutchman scored 209 goals and bagged 165 assists in 614 appearances – winning 12 league titles, 11 domestic cups and three European trophies.
Is Manuel Benson a realistic signing?
Benson was a brilliant player during Burnley’s promotion-winning season and was a regular fixture in their starting line-up.
There is a reason why Leeds are looking to replace Crysencio Summerville with him, though that is also likely a reason why Sunderland won’t get him.
Benson has three years left on his contract at Burnley and is likely to leave for a lot of money if a bidding war begins.
He is also thought to be earning around £20k-per-week with the Clarets, which would make him the highest earner on Wearside.
Sunderland could comfortably afford to sign Benson if Clarke leaves, but they are going to have to wait for him to actually go before making a concrete move.
It also seems very unlikely that the forward would choose to move to the Stadium of Light over Elland Road.