Sunderland announce goalkeeper transfer amid major Marcin Bulka twist
Sunderland are showing ambition in the transfer market as they strive to build a Premier League survival squad.
Having already signed Enzo Le Fee on a permanent deal, Sunderland are set to pip Leeds United to the signing of Habib Diarra.
The central-midfielder is to become the Wearsiders’ club-record signing once he joins from RC Strasbourg for £30million.
With Sunderland keen on OGC Nice goalkeeper Marcin Bulka, there has been a significant update from both parties.
Goalkeeper leaves Sunderland as Bulka future becomes certain
Sunderland are also set to beat Leeds to another signing in Reinildo, who will become the North East club’s third signing of the window.
The left-back will provide competition for Dennis Cirkin if he stays, but the Wearsiders also want to strengthen the spine of their team.
Anthony Patterson has been Regis Le Bris’ number one, but he needs pressure on him between the sticks.
Signing a new goalkeeper looks to be a guarantee after the news via Sunderland’s official website on Tuesday (1 July) that Nathan Bishop has joined AFC Wimbledon.
However, that new goalkeeper will not be Marcin Bulka, who is set to sign for Saudi side Neom SC, according to Foot Mercato (1 July).
| Marcin Bulka’s 2024/25 Ligue 1 statistics | Total |
| Appearances | 34 |
| Clean sheets | 8 |
| Goals conceded per match | 1.2 |
| Penalties saved | 1/3 |
| Saves per game | 3.6 (75%) |
| Goals prevented | 2.74 |
They state that the Polish international has decided to join the Saudi side because of the financial aspect of the deal.
This can be considered a transfer twist given how close Bulka was to joining Sunderland at one stage.
The French outlet states that the 25-year-old will net a salary of around £8.5million per year.
Furthermore, it has been reported that the goalkeeper is currently undergoing his medical.
Why are Sunderland chasing a new goalkeeper?
While Patterson has been a valuable part of Sunderland’s success, Sunderland are stepping up their goalkeeper pursuit.
Beyond Patterson, Le Bris has Simon Moore and Blondy Nna Noukeu, but neither is Premier League class.
Of course, it must be noted that Bulka is a player of substantial quality and experience, and he could have been signed to be the Wearsiders’ number one.
Patterson was a solid performer last season, but he was at fault for an embarrassing goal against Hull City.
However, he did play a significant part in Sunderland’s play-off triumph by pulling off the save of his career against Sheffield United.
Whatever happens, it is expected that Le Bris will have several top goalkeepers at his disposal next season.
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