Sunderland are launching a move to sign the World Cup star after a major scouting campaign
With the Europa League awaiting them next season, Sunderland have the chance to change their new form and act with more ambition than ever in the summer transfer window.
They stole the headlines last year, when they welcomed the likes of Granit Xhaka. It was the kind of spending that newly-promoted sides rarely enjoy, but the Black Cats didn’t return to the top flight just to get involved.
Better than Diarra: Sunderland are pursuing a deal to sign the £25m midfielder
Sunderland are reportedly looking to make a move for a star player who could be a better option than Habib Diarra in midfield.
The cure for any potential second-season syndrome may be more money, too. It would be a dramatic fall if those on Wearside were to be hit by the deadly disease, although they could still take any chances.
With the summer well underway, a few goals are already emerging. It is reported that the Black Cats are focusing on players such as Arne Engels, who looks set to leave Celtic in the coming months.
The £25m midfielder would be an excellent addition to Xhaka’s side and it looks like the focus will be on giving Regis Le Bris a boost in the middle of the park this summer.
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Sunderland unveil the way to sign the World Cup star
Alongside Engels, the Black Cats are also looking for a World Cup star. According to a report by 225 Foot, as relayed by Sports Witness, Sunderland have been linked with Christ Inao Oulai, who is currently playing an important role in the center of the Ivory Coast’s midfield.
Those at the Stadium of Light have already completed the massive task of scouting the 20-year-old and approached his agent, but they are not alone in the race. Fulham and Brentford have also done the same, which could spark a bidding war for the Trabzonspor star.
|
25/26 |
Inao Oulai |
Xhaka |
|---|---|---|
|
Minutes |
2,077 |
2,903 |
|
Goals |
2 |
1 |
|
Fighting |
49 |
50 |
|
Recovery |
124 |
179 |
|
Duel success |
55.5% |
60.3% |
Called “unbelievable” by scout Jacek Kulig, it’s easy to see why Sunderland are targeting Inao Oulai. The young star has all the potential to finally surpass Xhaka on Wearside and almost matched his impressive numbers despite playing fewer minutes last season.
The 20-year-old is now a World Cup star and could soon be on his way to the Premier League.
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He could be their first signing of the summer.
