Sunderland move for Oscar Mingueza, assess captain options
Ex-Sunderland captain Dan Neil leaves as a free agent to join Rangers on a three-year deal, pending clearance. He made 201 Sunderland appearances and captained the 2025 play-off win over Sheffield United.
Sunderland step up move for Celta Vigo defender Oscar Mingueza, rivalling Aston Villa as they target defensive reinforcements.
Sunderland reject Chelsea’s £8m bid for Granit Xhaka, with a £10m offer planned. If blocked, Chelsea could pivot to Bournemouth’s Alex Scott, valued at about £80m after Arsenal’s enquiry was rebuffed.
If Granit Xhaka joins Chelsea, candidates to captain Sunderland include Enzo Le Fée, Dan Ballard, Reinildo, Trai Hume and Nordi Mukiele, each touted for leadership, pedigree and fit under Régis Le Bris.
Leeds eye Bologna’s Jhon Lucumi, who has a £24m release clause. Sunderland nearly signed the Colombia defender last summer after bidding near that figure.
