Sunderland fans weigh up Europe hopes and squad retention
Chelsea have opened talks over a £44m-rated Bundesliga player also linked with Sunderland, with major European clubs interested, in what could be a blow to the Black Cats’ hopes.
Fans debate run-in: target wins vs Spurs, Forest, Wolves, draws at Villa and Everton, and a final-day push v Chelsea. Optimistic totals 52-56 points floated for a potential European tilt.
A once-promising Sunderland player once tipped to follow Jordan Henderson’s path is now deemed finished at the club, curtailing hopes of a lucrative Premier League sale.
Concern over keeping core after breakout season. Roefs, Sadiki and Brobbey tipped for major interest, with Ballard and Alderete also admired. European qualification could help retention and recruitment.
Sunderland can closely watch Bologna centre-back Jhon Lucumi against Aston Villa in the Europa League, after previous links and an offer reported in Italy. He impressed versus Roma and is unlikely to stay long term, with Barcelona also monitoring him, making Thursday a useful audition for suitors.
Sunderland, Birmingham and Derby were linked with Marcus Maddison at Peterborough but never signed him. Moves collapsed over fees and terms, and his later decline and jail term vindicate passing.
