Sunderland in talks for Chelsea striker once compared to Luis Suarez

Sunderland have signed players in almost every position as they prepare to embark on the Premier League.

Granit Xhaka is the latest arrival at the Stadium of Light and will add vital experience to Regis Le Bris’ young squad.

Dutch goalkeeper Robin Roefs is on his way to Sunderland for a medical and has been tipped to be the new number one.

Now, the Black Cats are in talks with a striker who has been compared to the great Luis Suarez.

Robin Roefs in action for Netherlands Under-21s
Credit: Imago

Sunderland advancing in Marc Guiu transfer approach

It had previously been reported that Chelsea were willing to loan Marc Guiu out so he could benefit from first-team football.

The 19-year-old has found opportunities sparse at Stamford Bridge, although he made an impact in the Europa Conference League.

Sunderland already have Eliezer Mayenda and Wilson Isidor in attack, but doubts remain over their Premier League credentials.

While several clubs are keen on the teenager, it is the Black Cats who are the most advanced, according to Spanish outlet SPORT (30 July).

Now, Keith Downie (30 July) has himself reported that the Wearsiders are in talks with Chelsea to sign the Spaniard.

The Sky Sports journalist says that Guiu is available on loan and Sunderland have made an approach to the Blues.

Why Marc Guiu was compared to Luis Suarez

Guiu grabbed the headlines for his impressive performance in the Conference League as Chelsea defeated Shamrock Rovers 5-1.

The 18-year-old scored a first-half hat-trick, which helped the West London club on their way to lifting the trophy.

Guiu bagged six goals in seven appearances in the competition in his first season since leaving Barcelona.

“My thought with Guiu is, how have Barcelona let him go?” former Chelsea man Joe Cole told TNT Sports, via BBC Sport (20 December 2024).

“I think Barcelona have made a mistake.

“I liken him to [former Barcelona, Liverpool, and Uruguay striker] Luis Suarez.

“I’m not saying he’s Suarez right now, but he has that instinct and bravery.

“This kid can score goals. He can be a big star for this club.”

Marc Guiu’s statistics v Shamrock RoversTotal
Minutes60
Goals3
Expected goals (xG)1.25
Shots on target4
The teenager was on lethal form (Sofascore)

Cole certainly offered Guiu high praise for his performance, and that will only encourage Sunderland supporters.

While Isidor and Mayenda have done their bit in patches, the teenager would provide worthy competition for Le Bris.

The forward only made seven senior appearances for Barca before leaving, but did bag two goals for the La Liga giants.

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