Sunderland are back by popular demand and are now closing in on a statement signing to bolster their engine room, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Sunderland plan ambitious moves ahead of Premier League return
Ambition is the watchword for Regis Le Bris, as his side prepare to do battle in the Premier League and avoid the unfortunate fates of many newly-promoted sides over the last few years.
Looking to add solidity between the sticks, Sunderland are reportedly close to bringing in OGC Nice goalkeeper Marcin Bulka, which may cast some doubt on Anthony Patterson’s long-term future as number one.
Journalist Loic Jego added some context to the situation on social media platform X, stating: “Imminent agreement between OGC Nice and Sunderland for the transfer of Marcin Bulka! A deal facilitated notably by the good relationship between Franck Haise and Regis Le Bris.”
Moving on, Sunderland are also interested in Empoli defender Saba Goglichidze. However, Nottingham Forest and the Black Cats’ arch-rivals Newcastle United are also looking to land the Georgian.
Habib Kieta could strengthen Le Bris’ midfield if the Wearside giants can come to an agreement with Clermont Foot, though he is one of many names that could arrive if circumstances align in their favour.
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The Black Cats are in the hunt for a new stopper.
Steel is necessary to make Sunderland a difficult outfit to take on, with their form at the Stadium of Light likely to be decisive in whether they manage to avoid the drop in their first season back in the top-flight since 2017.
Enjoying a full-circle moment after years in the doldrums, they could now be about to make a headline addition ahead of their return to the Premier League.
Romano: Sunderland set to sign Strasbourg’s Habib Diarra
Taking to social media platform X, Romano, echoing other reports, has also confirmed that Sunderland have agreed a package worth just over £30 million plus add-ons to sign Strasbourg midfielder Habib Diarra.
Delivering his trademark ‘Here We Go’ tagline, the Senegal international’s current employers will include a sell-on clause in the deal, and he is now set for a medical in the North East.
Dubbed “magnificent” by Liam Rosenior, Diarra registered four goals and five assists in 36 appearances across all competitions last term as Strasbourg secured a place in the Europa Conference League.
Making his presence known in a variety of roles across the engine room, the 21-year-old won 99 duels on Ligue 1 duty and also created 27 chances, illustrating that he can perform several functions.
Sunderland appear to have pulled off a coup should the deal go through without a dramatic last-minute hitch, and supporters will hope for more of the same on the recruitment front over the next few months.
