Sunderland and Forest ‘to face’ Saudi rival for Serie A target as Balogun link reported | OneFootball

Il Resto del Carlino reports Sunderland and Nottingham Forest are among the clubs tracking Bologna centre-back Jhon Lucumi, who is into the final year of his contract, with Inter and Juventus also interested. The outlet adds Al-Hilal are keen, and that Juventus tried to cut the fee by offering youngster Vasilije Adzic, but Bologna refused to lower their demands. It further says Lucumi would prioritise talks to remain in Italy.

El Mundo Deportivo claims Sunderland and Borussia Dortmund are being considered as very interesting options for Monaco striker Folarin Balogun. Juventus have also been linked, while the 25-year-old has two years left on his deal and is valued at over £50m. He drew headlines at the World Cup when US president Donald Trump appeared to get involved in the overturning of a red card against Bosnia-Herzegovina.

Sunderland have made one signing so far, Belgium international Thomas Meunier on a two-year contract after leaving Lille. The experienced full-back joins as Regis Le Bris prepares for the club’s first ever Europa League campaign.

After Saturday’s win at York, Le Bris underlined the need for further additions but said this summer would be more targeted than last year. He expects around six or seven signings rather than 14, noted the market is slow, and stressed it is better to wait than rush.

With a demanding schedule ahead, Sunderland are assessing defensive and attacking options and could yet step up interest if opportunities align. Attention will turn to how both situations develop.

Source: Sunderland Echo