Sunderland are reportedly targeting a versatile defender from Serie A who could potentially replicate the impact of Manchester United’s Patrick Dorgu, according to recent updates.
Sunderland plot move to sign Serie A defender
The January window has been relatively calm on Wearside, especially when contrasted with the club’s high-spending summer. The hierarchy at the Stadium of Light has largely been satisfied with the current roster, and with good reason. Despite a surprising heavy defeat to West Ham United last weekend, the Black Cats have performed exceptionally well since their return to the Premier League.
Regis Le Bris has effectively utilized the record-breaking financial backing he received in the summer to mold a squad that is now realistically competing for a European qualification spot. Despite the quiet month, time remains for the club to bolster their ranks further. Having already beaten Celtic to the signature of winger Jocelin Ta Bi earlier this month, the club could be poised for one final late-winter addition.
Big-name rumors have dominated the local headlines, most notably the sensational links to Real Madrid’s Brahim Diaz. The former Manchester City man, still reeling from a missed Panenka penalty in the AFCON final with Morocco, has been tipped for a return to England. However, a more strategic move might be brewing as Sunderland look to once again outmaneuver Celtic. According to Football Insider’s Pete O’Rourke, the club is preparing a move for Antonino Gallo before Monday’s deadline.
Gallo set to follow Dorgu path
Technically, Gallo is viewed as an ideal candidate to provide depth at full-back following Arthur Masuaku’s loan departure to Lens. However, his potential impact could go far beyond that of a mere squad player. The Lecce left-back possesses the versatility to operate in midfield, drawing direct comparisons to Patrick Dorgu.
Dorgu followed a similar trajectory from Lecce to the Premier League and has recently flourished as a winger for Manchester United, scoring against heavyweights like Manchester City and Arsenal. He has emerged as one of the standout performers of Michael Carrick’s interim tenure at Old Trafford.
Now, Sunderland believe Gallo could be the next versatile talent from Lecce to make a name for himself in the English top flight. His ability to push into more advanced midfield positions makes him a valuable asset for Le Bris. Whether he is utilized as cover for Reinildo at left-back or as an alternative to Romaine Mundle on the wing, Gallo offers significant tactical flexibility. With the deadline fast approaching, it remains to be seen if Sunderland will finalize the deal and beat Celtic to another primary target.
With the Monday 11pm deadline approaching, would you like me to track the official confirmation of the Gallo bid or look into his specific stats compared to the current Sunderland wing-backs?
| Sunderland’s most expensive signings of all time | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | Player | Fee | Signed from | Year |
| 1 | Habib Diarra | £27m | Strasbourg | 2025 |
| 2 | Simon Adingra | £21m | Brighton | 2025 |
| 3 | Enzo Le Fee | £19.3m | AS Roma | 2025 |
| 4 | Chemsdine Talbi | £18m | Club Brugge | 2025 |
| 5 | Brian Brobbey | £17.3m | ||
