Sunderland make approach to sign West Brom gem who’s just matched George Best

Sunderland’s journey back to the top flight has culminated in a triumphant return to Premier League football.

The Black Cats are now meticulously preparing for the immense challenge ahead, and astute recruitment is paramount to ensure they can compete effectively and establish themselves in the division.

As such, their scouting network has been working tirelessly, with a significant approach now made for a promising talent from an ex-Championship rival.

Regis Le Bris happy at Sunderland
Credit: Imago

Black Cats make approach for Isaac Price

Sunderland are on the lookout for a new midfielder.

According to SportsBoom (16 June), Sunderland have now made an initial approach to sign Isaac Price, the highly-rated young Northern Irish talent currently plying his trade at West Bromwich Albion.

Price, born in Pontefract, began his footballing journey at the renowned Everton academy, joining at the tender age of seven.

He rose through their youth ranks, featuring for their U18 and U21 sides, before making his senior debut for the Toffees in an FA Cup tie in March 2022.

He also made a Premier League appearance for Everton in May 2022.

In June 2023, seeking more regular first-team football, Price made the move to Standard Liège in the Belgian Pro League.

He quickly established himself, making 63 appearances for the Belgian club and scoring his first senior club goal against Club Brugge in October 2023.

His impressive performances in Belgium led to a return to English football in January 2025, when he signed for West Bromwich Albion.

For the Baggies, he has continued to feature regularly in the Championship, making 15 appearances and scoring one goal.

ClubAppearancesGoalsAssists
Everton300
Standard Liège6313
West Brom1511
Price’s Career stats

For Sunderland, this assertive move signals a clear intent to invest in young, high-potential players who possess the quality and ambition to thrive in the Premier League.

Price offers dynamism and versatility in midfield, capable of contributing both defensively and in driving forward attacks, which would perfectly suit Sunderland’s progressive style of play under Le Bris as they aim to make an impact on the top flight.

Stadium of Light
Stadium of Light, the home of Sunderland [Credit: Imago]

Price equals George Best’s international tally

The interest in Price comes at a particularly significant time for the midfielder, who has recently achieved a truly remarkable feat on the international stage, drawing powerful parallels with an iconic figure in British football history.

Price has just equalled the number of goals scored for Northern Ireland by none other than George Best.

While the contexts and eras are vastly different, for any Northern Irish footballer to be mentioned in the same breath as the legendary Manchester United winger, particularly concerning international goal tallies, highlights an extraordinary level of early achievement and potential.

Best finished his international career with nine goals from 37 caps; Price’s ability to reach that mark at such a tender age speaks volumes about his attacking instincts and growing influence for his national side.

Bringing in a player with such an impressive burgeoning international record, coupled with the invaluable experience of a Championship environment, now coupled with a pathway to Premier League football.

It would undoubtedly be a shrewd piece of business for the Stadium of Light outfit, should they manage to secure his signature amidst anticipated competition.