Sunderland approach Anguissa as confidence emerges after contract offer
Sunderland are now aiming to add proven quality to their young squad with two very ambitious signings.
Régis Le Bris has already seen his side significantly strengthened by adding several top young talents, but they will also need more experienced players in the Premier League.
Sunderland’s young squad face a difficult challenge to stay in the top flight, and the Black Cats are now aiming to add leadership and experience to their roster.
Bayer Leverkusen star Granit Xhaka has been targeted, and he could also be joined by another midfield ace at the Stadium of Light.
Sunderland approach André-Frank Zambo Anguissa
Sunderland are in talks with former Arsenal captain Xhaka over a move, and they may have found the perfect partner for him.
André Franck-Zambo Anguissa has shone for Napoli since leaving Fulham four years ago, but he could now be set for a shock return to the Premier League.
As reported by Fabrizio Romano via X (16 July), Sunderland have made a direct approach to Anguissa’s agent as they continue to work on a deal for Xhaka.
| Stat | Anguissa |
| Appearances | 35 |
| Goals | 6 |
| Assists | 5 |
However, Napoli have also offered Anguissa a one-year extension to his current deal, which would take his contract to 2028, and are confident of getting the green light.
Anguissa has made 151 appearances for the Serie A giants, winning two titles and competing at the highest level in the UEFA Champions League.
Sunderland targeting experienced winners
The moves for Xhaka and Anguissa may come as a surprise, given that Sunderland’s transfer policy under Kyril Louis-Dreyfus has seen younger players with sell-on value scouted and signed.
Habib Diarra has already joined as a club-record signing in midfield, but clearly, Sunderland recognise the need for experience to help these talents thrive.
A move for Jordan Henderson never materialised, but Xhaka and Anguissa have both won titles in recent seasons with Leverkusen and Napoli, and would arrive with significant Premier League experience.
Anguissa was a crucial player for Antonio Conte as they won Serie A on the final day, appearing in 35 of their 38 league games, and providing 11 goal and assist contributions from deep midfield.
Sign up for the Mackem News WhatsApp channel and turn on notifications to have all the latest, breaking Sunderland AFC news sent straight to your phone.