Sunderland have had a very busy morning as they look to wrap up another two transfers this week.
It has been reported today that the Black Cats are set to confirm the arrival of Ian Poveda ‘in the coming hours’, with pictures of the winger wearing a Sunderland shirt surfacing on social media.
While most fans are delighted by the news of the free-agent’s arrival, there are still a lot of eyes focused on the situation surrounding striker Alexandre Mendy.
It was reported earlier today that the 30-year-old had arrived on Wearside for a medical, with Sunderland looking to snap up their first proven goal-scorer since Ross Stewart got injured in January 2023.
However, journalist Keith Downie has now shut down rumours that he is already scheduled for a medical.
- READ MORE: Alexandre Mendy explains three reasons why he really wants to join Sunderland this summer
Keith Downie plays down Alexandre Mendy reports
Downie wrote on X: “Sunderland also in talks over Guinea-Bissau international striker Alexandre Mendy – but there’s work to do.
“The Caen striker has spoken about his hopes of joining the Championship club in an interview in France, but no agreement has been reached with the French club for the 30-year-old.”
Downie’s post was then littered with replies insisting he was already on Wearside, but the journalist replied to one fan with: “Are you sure? I’m not.”
Another reply said: “I don’t think he is (yet)”.
Who should Sunderland fans believe now?
Downie is usually fairly reliable with transfer news, however supporters will be hoping that the earlier report is accurate.
Sunderland already had a bid rejected for Mendy, but there has been no further update on a second offer.
Reports of his arrival in the North East are surely promising though, as even if he isn’t set for a medical, it would still suggest a deal is progressing nicely.
Hopefully the Black Cats can get a deal done by the weekend, as having a striker in the building before the season begins would be a huge boost.
The Caen forward hasn’t had much of a pre-season though, having been left out by his current club due to his impending exit.
Regis Le Bris will be hopeful that he can get Mendy in in time to participate in friendlies against Bradford City and Marseille, but his absence could potentially mean he wouldn’t be ready to start against Cardiff City on the opening day of the season.