Sunderland scouts set for Villa Park trip as Florent Ghisolfi eyes winter signing
Florent Ghisolfi is already planning ahead at Sunderland.
Sunderland’s summer business was excellent, and that has only been showcased by the impressive start the Black Cats have made to life in the Premier League.
Regis Le Bris’ side could match a tally set by West Ham in 2012 for most points picked up by a newly-promoted side when they face Nottingham Forest on Saturday.
While the players deserve praise for their part, so does Ghisolfi, who is already eyeing up another defensive arrival in the near future.
Jhon Lucumi still on Sunderland radar
Bologna travel to face Aston Villa this week in the Europa League, and Jhon Lucumi is expected to be in action for the Serie A side.
Lucumi was heavily linked with Sunderland in the summer, but the deal failed to come off as a result of Bologna’s inability to sign a replacement in time.
However, that interest remains strong, with a report from Quotidiano Sportivo stating that Sunderland will have figured in attendance for the clash at Villa Park to monitor Lucumi.
It also adds that Ghisolfi is still keen on bringing the Colombian to the Stadium of Light, having previously offered him a five-year contract worth double Bologna’s latest offer.
Sunderland’s strong defensive shape this season means that they will have some flexibility when it comes to negotiating a deal further down the line.
- Read more: What games Habib Diarra will miss as Regis Le Bris confirms crushing Sunderland injury blow
Do Sunderland need to sign Jhon Lucumi?
Nordi Mukiele has been exceptional at Sunderland and has even outperformed Virgil van Dijk when it comes to clearances made per game.
He’s formed an excellent partnership with Omar Alderete, forcing Dan Ballard out of the side.
With Lutsharel Geertruida also to add into contention, Sunderland have several good options at the heart of defence, and whether or not they need Lucumi will ultimately come down to where they are when the winter window arrives.
As of right now, they look set for that area, with other positions arguably needing more attention.
Enjoyed this article? Stay connected with all the latest Sunderland news, updates, and behind-the-scenes content by following us on our new Instagram account –@mackemnews247