Credit: Imago

Jack Dawson

Sun 15 June 2025 10:00, UK

Sunderland and Newcastle United have one of the fiercest rivalries in the UK.

The Tyne-Wear derby is set to return next season after the Black Cats’ promotion to the Premier League.

Since Sunderland have been relegated from the top flight, Newcastle have dramatically improved and are now in the Champions League for the second time in three years. 

However, Regis Le Bris has a chance to damage the Magpies’ transfer ambitions this summer.

Sunderland signing Japhet Tanganga could block Guehi to Newcastle

Sunderland are looking to sign Japhet Tanganga this summer after the defender impressed at Millwall.

With Chris Mepham now back at Bournemouth, the Black Cats need a new centre-back.

However, Sunderland face competition for Tanganga, with Crystal Palace now interested.

Now, it has come to light that through the Sunday Sun, (June 15, page 47) that Palace plan to replace Marc Guehi with the Millwall defender in an “astonishing” move. 

Newcastle are interested in Guehi after the England defender had another successful year in London.

However, the transfer is dependent on Palace’s ability to attract a replacement as they prepare for Europa League football.

Therefore, if Sunderland were to beat Oliver Glasner’s side to the signing of Tanganga, it could, in turn, block Newcastle’s attempt to sign Guehi.

Tanganga has the ability to play in the Premier League

The concern for Sunderland this summer is that many of the players they have been linked to might not have the ability to keep the Black Cats in the Premier League. However, this should not be a problem for Tanganga.

The former Spurs academy star is easily one of the best defenders in the Championship and has proven this season he is ready to step up into the top-flight.

Therefore, Palace’s interest in the 26-year-old comes as no surprise, as for £1.2million, the centre-back is a bargain. 

Le Bris’ side must now make Tanganga their top target and ensure they beat their rivals to the signing.