Kristjaaan Speakman ‘linked with’ £86.8m Sunderland quartet as January plans take shape | OneFootball

Sunderland are shaping January business, weighing additions and potential exits as the window hits its midpoint.

According to Sunderland Echo, the club will only act if value and profile align with long-term plans.

In defence, links include Real Madrid's Ferland Mendy, once a £45m player, who could be available around £9.5m. Interest in £26m-rated Jhon Lucumí has resurfaced, though focus is said to be on other profiles after securing Lutsharel Geertruida on loan last summer with an option to buy.

Arthur Masuaku is the subject of talks over a possible departure. He is at the Africa Cup of Nations, so any call is expected after his international duty.

Sunderland are monitoring 21-year-old Lucas Stassin of AS Saint-Étienne, valued around £17.3m, whose profile suits Régis Le Bris, with any move likelier in the summer. There has also been Premier League chatter around £34m Tammy Abraham, on loan at Beşiktaş from Roma, with 12 goals in 24 games, any recall would require compensation.

Outgoings are active. Ben Middlemas is close to a permanent switch to Swindon Town, with a fee and terms progressing, while former Sunderland midfielder Nectarios Triantis has been linked with West Bromwich Albion after Eric Ramsay’s arrival, who worked with him at Minnesota United.

Luke O’Nien has ruled out a move this month after the FA Cup win over Everton, despite links to Birmingham City, Coventry City and West Bromwich Albion. The club remain calm, exploring defence and attack sensibly, and will assess exits case by case.

Source: Sunderland Echo