Sunderland step up left-back talks as winger target emerges | OneFootball

Sunderland are accelerating work on the left of defence, stepping up talks over Toulouse left-back Dayann Methalie as Régis Le Bris looks to deepen his options. Dennis Cirkin has left on a free and Arthur Masuaku has interest from Konyaspor in Türkiye, leaving Reinildo as the only recognised left-back.

According to Bild, Sunderland are attempting to tempt Bayer Leverkusen winger Ernest Poku to the Premier League. Leverkusen are prepared to discuss a sale and want around £21.4million for the Netherlands under-21 international, who is contracted until 2030.

Sunderland have intensified their push for Methalie this week. They are understood to have reached agreement with the 20-year-old on a five-year deal, though a fee with Toulouse is still to be agreed and talks are continuing.

The Black Cats want another wide player following Bertrand Traoré’s departure earlier this summer. Poku, who can operate on either flank or centrally and produced six goals and 10 assists last season for Leverkusen, is one option, though how advanced Sunderland’s interest is remains unclear.

Noah Sadiki says he wants to increase his goal contributions this season after linking up with the squad in Nashville on Monday. He returned to training alongside Robin Roefs, Brian Brobbey, Simon Adingra, Habib Diarra and Nilson Angulo following their World Cup involvement.

Sunderland travel to New Jersey to face Leeds United this week, then conclude their United States tour in Pennsylvania on Sunday.

Source: Sunderland Echo