The transfer rumour mill continues to turn for Sunderland, with the latest incoming link concerning Aston Villa's Lamare Bogarde. Our analysis of the past seven days shows the club has been tied to 5 possible arrivals and 9 potential exits. The items below represent the latest news on the most important transfer rumours, with the hottest storyline right now concerning captain Granit Xhaka.
Granit Xhaka
On Saturday, it was reported that Granit Xhaka has reached a full agreement with Chelsea for a summer move. According to reports in Germany from Sky Sport Germany and Swiss outlet Blick, the midfielder has verbally agreed to personal terms to reunite with Xabi Alonso at Stamford Bridge. Fabrizio Romano also confirmed an agreement is in place between the player and Chelsea. However, Sunderland's position appears firm, with Sky Sports News reporting the club is not considering offers for their captain. The club has no desire or need to sell Xhaka, who signed a long-term contract until 2028 last summer. Furthermore, football.london understands that there has been no contact between Chelsea and Sunderland.
Lamare Bogarde
Sunderland's interest in Aston Villa's Lamare Bogarde is serious, according to a Saturday report from Voetbal International. The 22-year-old Dutch midfielder is considered a potential replacement for Granit Xhaka. Sunderland faces competition from Brighton & Hove Albion, which also has a definite interest, but a domestic transfer to Sunderland is currently expected. Aston Villa reportedly wants around 25 million euros for Bogarde, who is under contract until mid-2028 and is seeking a regular starting position.
Brian Brobbey
Manchester United are interested in Sunderland striker Brian Brobbey this summer, it was reported on Tuesday. The former Ajax player scored eight goals in all competitions under Regis Le Bris. Sources insist that Sunderland have no intention of approving a sale and will do everything they can to retain Brobbey, who is contracted to the Stadium of Light until 2029. Club officials are said to be very pleased with his progress, and discussions over a new long-term contract have already been considered internally.
Brian Brobbey
Further reports from Tuesday indicate wider interest in Brian Brobbey. According to TEAMtalk, Juventus, Atletico Madrid, and Stuttgart are closely monitoring the forward's progress. The same outlet claims that in the Premier League, Manchester United, Tottenham, and Aston Villa are considering possible approaches, with Chelsea also named as an interested party following his impressive performances at the 2026 World Cup.
Folarin Balogun
United States international Folarin Balogun is reportedly seeking a transfer back to English football, with Sunderland among several clubs monitoring him as of Tuesday. Aston Villa, Everton, Crystal Palace, Newcastle United, and Nottingham Forest are also watching the 24-year-old. His current club, Monaco, would prefer to keep the player and have set an asking price of approximately £43m. According to one source, a transfer is expected this summer for the striker, whose contract runs until June 2028.
Eliezer Mayenda
On Thursday, Foot Mercato mentioned that Rennes has taken steps to sign Sunderland forward Eliezer Mayenda. This followed a report on Monday stating the French club is keen on the 21-year-old and could soon begin discussions with Sunderland about a transfer fee. Mayenda's contract at the Stadium of Light runs until June 2030, and West Ham United have also been linked with the forward.
Dan Neil
West Ham are monitoring Dan Neil, whose wage demands are reported to be £10,000 a week as of Friday. On Thursday, Ben Jacobs reported on X that West Ham United are one of three clubs hoping to sign the midfielder this summer.
For the very latest transfer news, check the Sunderland club page.
