Sunderland Are Locked In A Three-Way Battle For This Talented Midfielder: Good Fit For Le Bris? | OneFootball

In a recent report, journalist Ekrem Konur stated that Sunderland are locked in a three-way battle for Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder Marlon Gomes this summer. It has been claimed that the Black Cats would have to compete with Aston Villa and Newcastle United in the race to sign the Brazilian talent in this transfer window.

Gomes’ Impressive Form In Ukrainian Football

The 22-year-old managed to shine at times with his performances at the heart of Shakhtar’s midfield in the previous campaign. Gomes scored two goals and grabbed four assists in 34 matches for his current employers last season in all competitions.

The Brazilian sensation is currently among the most talented central midfielders in Ukrainian football. Therefore, the Black Cats would do well to lure him to the Stadium of Light in this transfer window.

His current contract at Shakhtar will expire in the summer of 2028, which could make it tough for Sunderland to sign him on the cheap later this year.

KRAKOW, POLAND – NOVEMBER 6: Marlon Gomes of Shakhtar Donetsk seen in action during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 League Phase MD3 match between FC Shakhtar Donetsk and Breidablik at Henryk Reyman’s Municipal Stadium on November 6, 2025 in Krakow, Poland. (Photo by Mateusz Slodkowski/Getty Images)

Will Gomes Be A Good Fit For Sunderland?

Gomes loves a tackle and can time his challenges well to earn the ball back for his team inside his half. He doesn’t hesitate to put his foot through the ball when required and usually generates some power with his shot attempts.

The Brazilian talent is a good dribbler with the ball at his feet and can create some inviting chances for his teammates in the final third. Gomes is primarily a box-to-box midfielder but can also function as a defensive midfielder or play in the number ten position if asked to do so. However, it remains to be seen whether he can adapt to the physicality and high intensity of the Premier League.

We can expect Gomes to bring more quality and depth to Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris’ midfield. He is good enough to compete for a regular starting spot at the Stadium of Light next season.

At 22, the future looks quite bright for Gomes as long as he continues to improve with each year. He will also help the Wearside club compete across all fronts in the coming years. All in all, Gomes would be a decent fit for Le Bris’ needs this summer.