The barrage of Premier League sides hunting for Sunderland’s talent continues, with another team interested in a Black Cats star.
In recent weeks, the interest in several Sunderland players have certainly ramped up, and the pressure will certainly be on the Black Cats to ensure that they can achieve promotion to keep their star men.
Three players in particular that have attracted plenty of interest is the midfield trio of Jobe Bellingham, Chris Rigg and Dan Neil. Bellingham is gaining interest from Manchester United, whilst Rigg is wanted by West Ham.
Bellingham, in particular, has gained quite a reputation as part of Regis Le Bris’ side this season, and his performances on international duty with England U21 have made him even more sought after.
As a result, it is no surprise to see yet another Premier League side linked with Jobe, and it’s one that has yet to be linked.
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Nottingham Forest make ‘moves’ to sign Jobe Bellingham
The next side to enquire about Sunderland star Bellingham is high-flying Nottingham Forest, who, per a report by TeamTalk, have emerged as serious contenders to sign the 19-year-old.
The Premier League side have reportedly made ‘further moves’ in a potential deal, and contact has been made with Kristjaan Speakman.
The likelihood of Nottingham Forest playing in Europe next season could be a decisive factor in his decision, as well as the more likely opportunities he will receive, as opposed to some sides targeting the Black Cats midfielder.
Sunderland know what they must do to keep Jobe Bellingham
One way in which Sunderland will certainly deter interest in Bellingham, and likely most of their players as well, would be through achieveinhg promotion to the Premier League.
The odds are out of Sunderland’s favour at this point, but there is the potential that, fi Le Bris’ side can reach the Premier League via the play-offs, the Black Cats will retain all their star power, with Rigg also making it clear that his priority lies within the project on Wearside, and is fully committed to getting the club into the top-tier.
Unfortunately, though, the sad reality is that Bellingham’s future does rely on the likely play-off campaign Sunderland will have, and it adds much more pressure to weave through and into the Premier League.