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Sunderland in 'concrete move' for Ivory Coast international as contact made

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Published on:

23 Jun 2026, 11:36 am

Sunderland are reportedly interested in the signing of Trabzonspor midfielder Christ Inao Oulai.

The 20-year-old midfielder has impressed during his one campaign in Turkey, after he joined from Bastia 12 months ago.

It appears he could be on the move again already, though, with Sunderland apparently among the clubs interested in a transfer.

Oulai made 25 appearances in Turkey's top flight last season, scoring twice, providing four assists, and creating three big chances for his team-mates.

Oulai is currently representing the Ivory Coast at the World Cup, so the speed of the deal is likely to depend on how far they progress.

The Black Cats are in the market for reinforcements having qualified for the Europa League last season via a seventh-place finish in the Premier League.

Sunderland make moves for Christ Inao Oulai transfer

With the added games on Sunderland's schedule next season, it makes sense that they would be looking to add bodies in midfield.

According to 225foot, Sundlerland are among the clubs to have made "concrete moves" for Oulai's signature.

The outlet reports that the Black Cats are among the clubs to have made enquiries and reached out to Oulai's entourage about a transfer.

The report likens Oulai to former Ivory Coast midfielder Didier Zokora, who played in the Premier League for Tottenham.

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Who are Sunderland battling for Oulai's signature?

Sunderland are seemingly not the only Premier League side battling for the signature of the 20-year-old.

225foot adds that both Fulham and Brentford are also in the running for his signature.

The competition for his transfer, they say, could drive up his price, and Trabzonspor are under no pressure to sell as he is under contract.

So, Sunderland may have to open up the chequebook to steal a march on their rivals if they are to get a deal over the line.

If he were to make the move to the Stadium of Light, he could be battling the likes of Granit Xhaka, Habib Diarra, and Noah Sadiki for a spot in the starting line-up next season.

Sunderland are yet to make any moves in the transfer market, but the Black Cats are seemingly getting their ducks in a row to do some business.

Mouhamadou Habib Diarra

Noah Sadiki

Granit Xhaka

Fulham Football Club

Brentford Football Club

Sunderland Association Football Club