Fabrizio Romano drops new Sunderland AFC transfer update involving Chuba Akpom | OneFootball

Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Sunderland won't be signing Chuba Akpom, although they are still looking to strengthen.

Sunderland will not be signing Ajax forward Chuba Akpom ahead of the transfer deadline on February 3rd, although they are still in the market to strengthen Regis Le Bris’ squad.

The Black Cats have enjoyed a fine season so far, with the side sitting fourth in the Championship table as they look to bounce back to the Premier League.

A factor behind their success has been the recruitment policy, with Sunderland generally targeting young, exciting talent who they have given a platform to perform.

However, with promotion a possibility, the club have been ambitious this month, as the capture of Enzo Le Fee from Roma proved.

Sunderland’s transfer plans ahead of February 3rd deadline

And, it has been suggested the club could be prepared to make another statement signing, with some reports claiming they were keen on a deal for Akpom, who flourished at this level in the past.

Yet, in a fresh update, journalist Fabrizio Romano revealed that Akpom won’t be moving to the Stadium of Light, but it wasn’t all bad news for Sunderland fans, as he confirmed they are on the lookout for a new addition.

“Sunderland are working to bring in new player…but it won’t be Chuba Akpom from Ajax despite links, as there are other clubs in concrete talks.”

Sunderland’s promotion hopes could rest on final few days of the window

Even though Sunderland have been excellent this season overall, there is a reliance on Wilson Isidor when it comes to scoring goals, and, even then, he only has nine in the campaign.

So, if they could find a proven goalscorer at this level, like Akpom, then it’s a no-brainer, and Sunderland will be an attractive option to players given the style of play and the fact they could return to the Premier League this season.

But, it’s hard to find goalscorers, especially with a matter of days left in the window, so it’s not going to be straightforward.

Romano’s update proves the club are still working away in the background, and it will be interesting to see if they can make progress with whoever the target is.

The arrival of Le Fee means it has been a good window for Sunderland already, but the team would benefit from an additional number nine as they battle Leeds United, Sheffield United and Burnley in the automatic promotion hunt.