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

In a recent report, 225 Foot claimed that Sunderland are locked in a three-way battle for Trabzonspor midfielder Christ Inao Oulai this summer. It has been mentioned that the Black Cats would have to compete with Fulham and Brentford in the race to land the Ivory Coast talent this off-season.

Inao Oulai’s Impressive Rise In Turkish Football

Inao Oulai managed to shine at times with his performances at the heart of Trabzonspor’s midfield in the previous campaign when he put in a run of solid displays for them at the centre of the park. The 20-year-old registered two goals and picked up four assists in 31 matches for the Turkish outfit last season across all fronts.

The Ivory Coast sensation is currently one of the most promising young midfielders in the Turkish Super Lig. Thus, Sunderland would do well to win the race for his services in this transfer window.

Inao Oulai’s current contract at the Turkish club will run out in the summer of 2030. Therefore, the Black Cats would have to make a convincing offer if they are serious about recruiting him later this year.

TORONTO, ONTARIO – JUNE 20: Christ Inao Oulai #26 of Cote d’Ivoire runs with the ball during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group E match between Germany and Cote D’Ivoire at Toronto Stadium on June 20, 2026 in Toronto, Ontario. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images)

Will Inao Oulai Be A Good Option For Sunderland Boss Regis Le Bris?

Inao Oulai is a solid tackler of the ball and can scan the danger well to secure possession back for his team inside his half. He doesn’t mind clearing his lines when the opposition are on the offensive and is a good passer as well.

The Ivory Coast midfielder can chip in by scoring and creating the odd goal for his team. Inao Oulai is primarily a box-to-box midfielder but can also serve as a defensive midfielder or play in the number ten position if told to do so. However, there are some concerns over whether he can adapt to the physical side and high intensity of the Premier League if the Black Cats manage to land him later this year.

We can expect Inao Oulai to improve the quality of Sunderland head coach Regis Le Bris’ midfield in the long run. He is already good enough to serve as a good rotational piece in the Wearside club’s squad.

At 20, the future looks quite bright for Inao Oulai as long as he continues to improve with each year. He will also help the Black Cats compete across all competitions in the coming seasons. With all things considered, Inao Oulai would be a decent option for Sunderland to consider before the end of this transfer window.