Sunderland edge Everton, transfer noise builds
FC Köln open talks to sign Dan Neil on a free in summer. The Sunderland academy midfielder has under 200 minutes this season and is out of contract, with other Bundesliga and English interest reported.
Sunderland track Rio Ave winger André Luiz, but owner Evangelos Marinakis holds out for €20m amid Benfica interest. Deal complicated by price and Forest-Olympiacos links, with the player contracted to 2029.
Sunderland beat Everton on penalties after a 1-1 draw. Enzo Le Fée volleyed in after a Mukiele throw, Everton levelled late via a soft penalty. Robin Roefs saved all three spot-kicks to send SAFC through.
Sunderland, who tried last summer, are named among clubs eyeing Bologna defender Jhon Lucumi. A €15m summer fee is touted, with interest also from West Ham, Inter and Manchester City.
Podcast tackles Sunderland’s January needs: right wing priority, risk of losing Sadiki and Roefs, and squad strengthening to hit season aims after Roefs’ heroics.
Ex-Sunderland left-back Patrick van Aanholt is now third choice at Sparta Rotterdam, behind Teo Quintero and Mike Kleijn, and could consider his future after limited minutes this season.
