Sunderland track Serbian hotshot ahead of 2026 transfer – Exclusive
Sunderland are keeping tabs on one of Serbia’s brightest prospects, Mackem News understands.
Sunderland’s summer recruitment raised eyebrows in the Premier League, with the likes of Kristjaan Speakman and Florent Ghisolfi earning praise for the work they have done over the last few months.
Those arrivals have played a crucial role in the success that the Black Cats have found upon their return to the top flight, and the nature of the deals has allowed plenty of wiggle room when it comes to future transfer windows.
With that in mind, Sunderland are already scouting some of Europe’s brightest talents, and could make a move for one that they have been aware of since 2024.
Ognjen Bondzulic ‘impresses’ Sunderland scouts
Mackem News understands that Sunderland have been keeping tabs on Serbian youth international and Mladost Lucani forward Ognjen Bondzulic.
The 18-year-old has been in the first team since March 2024 and has already demonstrated his versatility across the forward line, though he typically plays off the wing.
So far this season, the Serbian has scored twice in seven appearances, having netted on seven occasions in 18 appearances last campaign.
Bondzulic is under contract until 2027, but Mladost Lucani officials have been made aware that as many as six English clubs have conducted checks on the forward, with Sunderland scouts believed to have been impressed.
The Black Cats still have spending room in January, though Bondzulic has been earmarked as more of a development signing should the Wearsiders remain in the Premier League.
Serbia have produced promising talent
Milan Aleksic is one who arrived at Sunderland from Serbia, joining from Radnicki in 2024.
While things are yet to pan out as expected on his behalf, there have been several hotshots snapped up from Serbia over the last few years.
Veljko Milosavljevic, formerly of Red Star Belgrade, joined Bournemouth in the summer transfer window, and has made two appearances for the Cherries already.
While Bondzulic is unlikely to be able to make the step up immediately, he is a player admired by several Premier League clubs, with a remarkable amount of potential.
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