According to reports, Sunderland are considering offloading several first-team players during the January transfer window, following an extensive overhaul of the squad in the summer transfer window.
The Black Cats, who underwent a significant rebuilding process after their promotion to the Premier League, brought in 14 new players and spent over £150 million. As a result, some players are now struggling for consistent playing time, prompting Sunderland to potentially seek deals for players on the fringes of the squad in order to generate funds for any further signings.
One player mentioned as a possible departure is Dennis Cirkin, a full-back who is currently sidelined due to injury and has not featured for Sunderland this season. With increased competition for his position following the arrivals of Reinildo Mandava and Arthur Masuaku, Cirkin’s future at the club is uncertain. Tottenham Hotspur, his former club, is reportedly monitoring his situation.
In another transfer saga, Sunderland reportedly attempted to sign Nantes striker Matthis Albine during the summer window but were outbid by Wolves. Despite Sunderland’s interest and bid of around £17.5 million, Wolves surpassed them with an offer of approximately £26.2 million. Nantes, however, held out for a higher valuation close to £34.9 million, leading to both clubs failing to secure the player.
Albine, a France U21 international, has drawn interest from other clubs such as Marseille and Paris FC. The player himself is reportedly open to a move, indicating that the transfer saga could potentially resume in the upcoming January transfer window.
