‘Sunderland to beat Leeds to another transfer’ as El Aynaoui deal on cards
Sunderland could be set to further embarrass Leeds United in the transfer window.
From the rumours so far this summer, you’d be forgiven for thinking Sunderland and Leeds’ recruitment teams have been working together when it comes to identifying players.
Sunderland have had the upper hand so far, though, with Habib Diarra choosing the Stadium of Light over Elland Road.
Noah Sadiki was also a target for Leeds United but ended up in the North East, signing for around £15million.
Now, Sunderland could be set to get another one over their relegation-battling rivals after updates on Neil El Aynaoui.
El Aynaoui wanted by Sunderland
The Black Cats have shown plenty of ambition so far this summer, with winger Chemsdine Talbi to be confirmed soon as the latest addition to Regis Le Bris’ squad.
Sunderland are showing no signs of slowing down, with reports linking them to another midfielder, this time, RC Lens’ El Aynaoui.
According to Footmercato (7 July), Sunderland, along with European sides such as Juventus, Roma, AC Milan, and, you guessed it, Leeds United, are interested.
| Neil El Aynaoui | Ligue 1 stats (2024/25 season) |
| Appearences | 24 |
| Goals | 8 |
| Assists | 1 |
The reports suggest that Roma are currently in pole position to land the Moroccan, with the 24-year-old being the subject of a £17.2million (€20million) bid.
If Sunderland enter the bidding war and manage to land the signing of El Aynaoui, you would assume this rules out a move for Jordan Henderson, given the amount already invested in the Black Cats’ midfield.
Sunderland must act swiftly if they want El Aynaoui
With Diarra and Sadiki already through the door at Sunderland, the competition for places would become even more intense if El Aynaoui were to sign.
This would give Le Bris a headache of who to start, but having quality depth for the Premier League will be vital.
If Sunderland want El Aynaoui, then they must act swiftly, given Roma have already been in contact with Lens for his services.
If the Black Cats could land another player wanted by Leeds, they would be further rubbing salt in the wounds of a club who are likely to be one of their direct rivals next season.
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