Sunderland give Pirola transfer green light as £20m+ update emerges
Lorenzo Pirola has been identified as a target for Sunderland.
Sunderland have made no secret of their desire to secure more defensive arrivals this summer ahead of their return to the Premier League.
Jhon Lucumi is one player linked with Sunderland, with Pirola’s name the latest to have emerged.
The 23-year-old has thrived at Olympiacos, with details emerging ahead of a potential exit for the Italian youth international.
Pirola emerges on Sunderland radar
Reinildo’s arrival will boost Sunderland defensively, though the Black Cats remain intent on adding more quality to their backline.
As per a report from Foot Italia (25 July), the Sunderland board have now given the green light for negotiations to start over a transfer for Pirola.
| Olympiacos | Games | Duels won % | Tackles won % |
| Pirola | 21 | 72.2% | 65.7% |
Olympiacos are said to want in the region of £22million for the Italian, with Sunderland prepared to sanction just less than that, while including add-ons to up the overall package, which is said to be a more feasible option.
Roma are also said to hold an interest in the centre back, who can also operate as a utility left-back if required, which would be a good thing to have for the Wearsiders.
Sunderland still have work to do
The business so far has been impressive, but the Black Cats still lack quality in several areas in their starting 11, and addressing those concerns will be crucial in the next few weeks.
Signing a defender is a must, while adding more options up top will also be high up on the list of priorities ahead of the season opener in August at the Stadium of Light.
Time is still on the side of the Black Cats, with the transfer window open until the start of September.
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