Sunderland are interested in signing Sochaux’s Eliezer Mayenda.
French outlet Foot Mercato have reported that the Black Cats are targeting the striker as they look to build up their squad depth.
The 18-year-old made his senior debut in a Coup de France defeat to Nantes in December 2021, when he became the youngest player to ever feature for Sochaux’s first team at only 16 years, 7 months and 10 days.
After mainly playing for Sochaux’s B team, Mayenda made 15 appearances in Ligue 2 last season and netted his first goal for the club in their 5-1 win over FC Annency in February.
Sochaux’s severe financial issues resulted in an immediate relegation from Ligue 1 last season and they are now open to offloading their best players as they look to avoid bankruptcy.
Sunderland have now been put on high alert as they look to lure Mayenda to the Championship, while they could prise him away on the cheap due to Sochaux’s problems off the pitch.
Is Eliezer Mayenda the striker Sunderland need to sign this summer?
While very little is known of Eliezer Mayenda, he could certainly be another star for the future if he makes the move to the Stadium of Light.
However, the Spanish U17 international only burst onto the scene last season and managed one goal for Sochaux.
The Black Cats have already snapped up Luis Hemir Semedo who has featured heavily for Benfica’s B team and it would be interesting to see them opt for yet another teenager.
Sunderland have the likes of Isaac Lihadji and Jewison Bennette among their attacking ranks and, with Ross Stewart sidelined, the Wearside club’s focus should be on bringing on someone who can fill that void.
Tony Mowbray can’t be expected to start Semedo or one of our wingers up top in their opener against Ipswich Town. It is great seeing the club thinking about the future, but we also need to consider the present.