Pietro Comuzzo and Premier League winner: Three centre-backs Sunderland should sign

Correspondent AUTHORITY Football journalist with experience at the Edinburgh Evening News and GRV Media; Masters graduate from the University of Derby. FOCUS Scottish Premiership coverage with specialist knowledge of Rangers, Celtic, Hearts, Aberdeen, and Motherwell. THE INSIGHT Jack utilises a network of club and industry contacts across the Scottish Premiership to deliver verified, high-speed reporting. He provides the tactical and transfer insight behind the headlines to ensure fans get the full story as it happens.

Published on:

09 Aug 2025, 1:30 am

Sunderland have brought in plenty of players so far this summer, ready for the new Premier League season.

However, the Black Cats are still crying out for a new centre-back if they stand any chance of staying in the top flight.

Defensive issues have plagued Sunderland’s pre-season, which has only made this need more vital.

As a result, Mackem News has highlighted three players Regis Le Bris should look to sign to solve their concerns at the back.

Regis Le Bris watches his Sunderland side in action

Regis Le Bris will be keen to bring in a new centre-back as soon as possible (Credit: Imago)

Pietro Comuzzo

Pietro Comuzzo has recently been linked with a move to Sunderland.

The 20-year-old made his breakout last season in the Serie A for Fiorentina, where he heavily impressed.

As a result, on top of Sunderland, both Nottingham Forest and Manchester United are chasing the defender.

Pietro Comuzzo stats in the Serie A last season
Appearances	33
Goals	1
Tackles won percentage	48.8%
Aerial duesl won percentage	59.6%
Interceptions	29
Yellow cards	5

Comuzzo impressed in his first season at Fiorentina

Therefore, a big fee is likely needed if Le Bris is to sign the Italian.

However, given Comuzzo’s potential and form at the Serie A outfit, it should be a signing that Sunderland seriously considers.

Read more: Dan Neil to end 15-year stay – Three players Sunderland could sell before deadline

Igor Julio has struggled to break into Brighton's first-team (Credit: Imago)

Igor Julio

Sunderland were linked to Igor Julio earlier in the transfer window.

The Brighton centre-half has struggled to break into the first team during his first two seasons at the Seagulls.

Therefore, Sunderland could be able to tempt Julio to make a switch to the Stadium of Light in order for the 27-year-old to secure more game time.

Julio joined Brighton from Fiorentina in 2023

This would be an ideal signing for Le Bris as not only does the Brazilian have Premier League experience, but the centre-back has impressed in numerous leagues around Europe.

On top of this, at 27 years old, Julio is entering his prime, which would make him an excellent asset.

Kurt Zouma is currently a free agent (Credit: Imago)

Kurt Zouma

A potential long shot, but Kurt Zouma is still searching for a new club after being released by West Ham.

The 30-year-old has spent the majority of his career in the Premier League and won the title twice at Chelsea.

Therefore, experience-wise, you cannot get much better than the former French international.

While Zouma’s wage demands could be high, it is no doubt cheaper than spending a big transfer fee on an alternative option.

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Pietro Comuzzo