Tanganga sets 30 June Millwall exit deadline amid Sunderland transfer news
Sunderland have previously expressed interest in Millwall defender Japhet Tanganga.
The Millwall centre-back has been identified as a name on Regis Le Bris’ shortlist to bring to the Stadium of Light this summer.
Tanganga is understood to have a £1.2million release clause, available to all Premier League clubs.
This made the 26-year-old an ideal target for Sunderland, as the bargain price comes with Premier League experience from his time at Tottenham.
Fellow newly promoted sides Burnley and Leeds are also following the defender closely; however, the latest club to express interest is even more worrying for Sunderland.
Crystal Palace enter the battle for Tanganga
According to The Express (13 June), established Premier League team Crystal Palace have joined the race to sign the 26-year-old, who wants his future to be resolved by 30 June.
The Eagles are considering a bid for the defender from their south London rivals after centre-back Marc Guehi could leave Selhurst Park this summer.
A move across South London would see Tanganga follow Romain Esse, who left the Den for Selhurst Park in January.
Crystal Palace’s status as an established Premier League side, who have qualified for the Europa League, could be a more attractive option than Sunderland for Tanganga.
However, it is likely Palace’s interest in Tanganga is dependent on Guehi’s future, which is not yet confirmed, leaving some hope for Sunderland fans.
Tanganga would be ‘perfect’ for Sunderland
There is no doubt among fans of the Black Cats that their return to the Premier League will be tough.
The club is already in preparation for the physicality and intensity of the top flight, however they need to bring in much-needed Premier League experience if they are serious about surviving on their first year back.
Tanganga’s time at Tottenham, where he played senior 50 matches across five seasons, shows he is familiar with the style of play in the top competition.
In addition to his experience, Tanganga would be valuable to Regis Le Bris’ side, as Sunderland need reinforcements in their back line before the new season.
Sunderland were dealt an earlier transfer blow after reports that they may have to compete to keep centre-back Chris Mepham on a long-term basis.
Mepham was integral to the promotion-winning squad and looks set to leave his parent club, Bournemouth, on a free transfer.
Sunderland should look to pursue Tanganga further, despite interest from other Premier League clubs, as he could take over the role Mepham played last season, and his experience at such a low cost would be perfect.