With Habib Diarra and Reinildo already on their way, Sunderland have now reportedly stepped up their pursuit of an 11-goal striker by submitting an opening offer.
Who Sunderland could sign after Diarra and Reinildo
Both Diarra and Reinildo stand out as impressive signings for a promoted side and the former should particularly make his mark in Wearside next season. But the Black Cats still have work to do. Keeping hold of their Premier League place will be an incredibly tough task – just ask the last six sides that attempted to do so – and further investment will be key.
Even after splashing out a club-record fee for Diarra, the Black Cats have reportedly set their sights on signing the likes of Abdoulaye Doucoure, although that would be at a bargain price thanks to his current status as a free agent.
The Frenchman left Everton at the end of last season and could now get the chance to stay put in the Premier League courtesy of Sunderland. It’s a deal that would work for both parties too. Doucoure’s experience would be invaluable next to younger talents like Diarra and the player, himself, is still more than good enough for England’s top-flight.
He’s not the only name on Sunderland’s wishlist, though. Those at the Stadium of Light have also reportedly set their sights on Bournemouth’s Hamed Traore. Like Diarra, the attacker set Ligue 1 alight last season and could now earn a permanent move away from the Cherries, be it thanks to Sunderland or another club this summer.
Ligue 1 seems to be where it’s at for Regis Le Bris’ side too, amid further reports that they’ve now submitted an opening offer to sign an impressive striker from France’s top tier.
Sunderland submit opening offer to sign Abline
As reported by Foot Mercato, Sunderland have now submitted an opening offer worth €20m (£17m) to sign Matthis Abline from FC Nantes this summer. The Black Cats already made contact with the French side about the forward earlier this summer and have now made their first move in pursuit of his signature.
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Better signing than Diarra: Sunderland now targeting “fantastic” £18m star
Sunderland’s rapid summer business is showing no signs of slowing down as a new target now appears on their shopping list.
Whether their £17m offer is enough to complete is a question that Sunderland may have an answer to soon enough. Nantes have already told Marseille that they’ll only sell their star striker for €50m (£43m) in the coming months, but whether clubs outside of France will have to pay such a premium fee remains to be seen.
Described as an “instinctive finisher” who’s “quick” and “direct” by analyst Ben Mattinson, Abline scored 11 goals in all competitions at Nantes last season and could now have the chance to repeat that record in the Premier League when August arrives.
