As a follow-up to this morning's "Outgoings" roundup, here are the players linked with a move to Sunderland AFC in what looks set to be a really busy transfer deadline day.
MICHUT RETURN?
In what would be one of the most surprising moves of the transfer window, L'Equipe have reported that Sunderland are pushing to bring back Edouard Michut, who spent last season on loan here but the option to buy for €2.5m was not exercised. Should this deal be completed, it would show that leaving all your business until the last minute isn't ideal and the club are desperate to simply bring bodies through the door. With Sunderland looking for depth at the base of midfield, a player who can sit and protect the defence, Michut probably isn't the right person to bring in. He's not a bad player, but it was pretty clear when he went back to PSG that both parties were keen on moving in different directions. In fact, this is exactly what Kristjaan Speakman said at the time: “Edouard played a prominent role throughout his loan spell at the Stadium of Light and we thank him for his contribution. He is highly respected by all at Sunderland AFC but following a period of dialogue with the player and his representatives, all parties mutually agreed it was best to pursue other opportunities at this moment in time. We have thoroughly enjoyed working with Edou and wish him well for the future.”
AOUCHICHE COMING IN?
Another French midfielder, Adil Aouchiche is likely to sign for Sunderland today according to L'Equipe. He is reportedly set to sign a five-year contract at the club. The 21-year-old plays for Lorient and already has 81 Ligue 1 appearances to his name. Should he sign, those appearances should be an indicator that he'll adapt to life in the Championship fairly quickly. He's a versatile attacking midfielder who can fill various positions - an exciting talent who will, hopefully, supplement more deadline day reinforcements.
CRESPO ON LOAN?
Reports in Turkey are suggesting that Sunderland are negotiating with Fenerbahce for 26-year-old midfielder Miguel Crespo. It seems that should a deal be agreed, it will be an initial loan with the option of a permanent transfer. Crespo would add some much-needed depth and experience to the engine room, which would look extremely bare in the case of an injury to Dan Neil or Pierre Ekwah. The Portuguese midfielder has played 65 games for Fenerbahce in all competitions, scoring four and providing six assists and played three times for the club this season in the UEFA Conference League qualifying campaign.
RUSYN LATEST
Nazariy Rusyn has not yet signed for Sunderland, although a fee was agreed with his club last week. His work permit application has prevented the deal from progressing faster but he's expected to be confirmed today. With Ross Stewart joining Southampton today, the club cannot expect fans to believe that Rusyn is his replacement. While he could be a good prospect (and at 24 will already be one of the more senior heads in the dressing room) Sunderland need to spread the burden of Stewart's impact with another forward, or even two, to accompany Rusyn. Surely the club know that.
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