Sunderland news round-up: Jhon Lucumi may take FIFA action as Omar Alderete transfer reveal drops
Sunderland may not have been in midweek action, but there has been plenty to talk about on Wearside.
Regis Le Bris’ side secured a point against Crystal Palace last time out, meaning they have seven points from a possible 12.
If the Black Cats beat Aston Villa on Sunday, then it will be the first time that they have won their first three home games of a Premier League season.
In what has been a busy week off the pitch, Mackem News rounds up the latest news from the Stadium of Light.
Jhon Lucumi could go to FIFA as Bologna agreement on the cards
Despite the transfer window closing, there has still been significant speculation around Sunderland target Lucumi.
The Colombian international was wanted by the Black Cats over the summer, but Bologna stood firm despite him wanting to move to the North East.
Now, it has been reported that Lucumi could invoke Article 17 of FIFA to secure his release upon payment of a clause after more than three years.
Furthermore, this is an issue that would be resolved by the defender signing a new contract, and while Bologna are also pushing for this, the centre-back is yet to respond.
Could Mike Dodds return to Sunderland after Wycombe Wanderers sack?
Wycombe have sacked Dodds after an uninspiring start to the season, with Michael Duff taking over.
The 39-year-old suffered defeat in the League One play-offs last term and has been unable to turn around the Chairboys’ form.
Given that his first foray into management has not gone to plan, Dodds could be eyeing a return to Regis Le Bris’ coaching setup.
Dodds was Le Bris’ assistant manager before he left the North East club and even held the role of caretaker manager on a couple of occasions.
If there is room for him to return in some capacity, then it would be unsurprising to see him back on Wearside.
Omar Alderete’s agent reveals summer transfer revelation
Sunderland saw off significant competition to land Alderete, who has since thrived at centre-back for Le Bris.
The Paraguay international has formed a formidable partnership in the hub of the Wearsiders’ defence alongside Nordi Mukiele.
Now, Alderete’s agent has revealed that Serie A side Roma were also in the market for the 28-year-old.
- Joined Sunderland for £10million from Getafe
- Signed a four-year deal at Stadium of Light
- Already established as a starter for the Black Cats
He said: “When the Premier League appears, and a historic club like Sunderland, there is not much to think about from our point of view.
“I had a meeting with Roma about Omar.
“For Omar, entering such an important team as Sunderland, even if they have just been promoted, we know the history and the new investment.
“For him to be one of the chosen players is a source of pride. The team started well, and he started super well. I think it was the correct step to take.”
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