Now that Sunderland are challenging at the top end of the Championship table, with promotion to the Premier League looking very possible, the Black Cats can set their sights on some more illustrious names in the transfer market.
Sunderland last season were, for many fans, simply awful. In the end, the Black Cats only finished six points above the drop zone and if it weren’t for the goals of Jack Clarke, Sunderland could’ve been playing in League One this season.
Instead, Regis Le Bris arrived during the summer and the club’s fortunes have shifted drastically. In their last game, Sunderland beat Portsmouth 1-0 to secure back-to-back victories in the Championship.
Now, the Black Cats sit in 4th place of the Championship table and are just three points behind leaders Leeds United. But what happens during this January transfer window could decide who earns promotion, and who misses out.
Sunderland have been linked with several attackers so far, suggesting their main aim in the window. But a new and exciting midfielder has been linked in Enzo Le Fee.
- READ MORE: Possible Sunderland and Newcastle United groundshare mooted amid plans to renovate St James’ Park
Sunderland handed Enzo Le Fee transfer boost
Recently, Sunderland have been linked with La Fee who currently plays for Serie A outfit Roma. But Le Bris knows the French central midfielder well having previously managed the 24-year-old at Lorient.
Le Fee has featured just six times in Serie A this season following his £19million move from Rennes during the summer. But already he could be on the move with Real Betis having been hot in his trail.
However, an emerging report from Spanish outlet Dario de Sevilla has revealed that La Fee’s proposed loan move to Real Betis has fallen through. Le Fee has called quits on the move because Betis are taking too long to formalise the deal.
The same report adds that Betis would’ve had the option to buy La Fee for €20million (£16.6million).
- READ MORE: French media hail ‘decisive’ Wilson Isidor after ‘in form’ Sunderland star nets winner vs Portsmouth
Enzo Le Fee deal could hinge on one Sunderland player
Sunderland are certainly well-stocked in central midfield right now. But Jobe Bellingham is linked with a move away and whether or not he leaves the Stadium of Light could dictate whether or not the Black Cats sign La Fee, or any other central midfielder for that matter.
The latest is that Sunderland have agreed Bellingham can leave if a Premier League clubs comes in with a suitable offer. It’s thought that the Sunderland owners want £20million for Bellingham who has strong interest from Arsenal and Crystal Palace.
La Fee on loan would certainly be an exciting coup for the Black Cats, though how realistic it is remains to be seen with La Fee bound to have top flight suitors around Europe.