Kristjaaan Speakman ‘linked with’ £86.8m quadruple Sunderland moves in January window | OneFootball

Sunderland’s January plans are advancing, with the club weighing reinforcements and potential exits as they target value and long-term fit.

According to Sunderland Echo, defensive links include Real Madrid full-back Ferland Mendy, who could be available for around £9.5m. Interest in £26m-rated Bologna centre-back Jhon Lucumí has resurfaced, though attention has shifted to other profiles after Lutsharel Geertruida arrived on loan last summer with an option to buy.

There is also speculation over Arthur Masuaku’s future. The DR Congo international is at the Africa Cup of Nations, and any decision is likely after his tournament, with the club open to solutions that suit all parties.

Up front, 21-year-old Lucas Stassin of AS Saint-Étienne, valued at £17.3m, is viewed as fitting Régis Le Bris’ approach. A move appears likelier in the summer given the fee and Saint-Étienne’s promotion push.

Meanwhile, £34m striker Tammy Abraham has emerged as a possible target this month. He is on loan at Beşiktaş from Roma and has 12 goals in 24 appearances this season. Any early return would require compensation.

In midfield, Ben Middlemas is close to a permanent move to Swindon Town, with talks progressing over a fee and personal terms. After the FA Cup win over Everton, Luke O’Nien dismissed exit talk, saying he is “going absolutely nowhere” amid links to Birmingham City, Coventry City and West Bromwich Albion.

Source: Sunderland Echo