Lutsharel Geertruida clause expiry ‘to open’ Sunderland up to Leeds United threat | OneFootball

Lutsharel Geertruida’s future on Wearside remains unclear, a scenario that could open Sunderland up to bids from rivals such as Leeds United and Everton this summer. He is contracted to Bundesliga side RB Leipzig.

Sky Germany reports that Sunderland allowed an option, believed to be just under £20 million, to expire while trying to negotiate a lower fee, and that Leipzig aim to sell permanently. The outlet adds there is interest from the Premier League, Serie A and La Liga, that the 25-year-old could use the upcoming World Cup to raise his profile, and that Sunderland are back in the race after fresh talks.

Geertruida spent 2025/26 on loan at the Stadium of Light, with an option-to-buy included in the original agreement with Leipzig.

TEAMtalk reports that Aston Villa, Everton, Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace tracked his situation late in the campaign, while clubs in Italy, Germany, France and Spain also made enquiries.

Meanwhile, Voetbal International claims Liverpool, who explored a January deal during an injury crisis, have cooled their interest, with no current contact following the departure of head coach Arne Slot.

Source: Sunderland Echo