Sunderland could cash in on free signing who’s now worth more than Clarke

02/06/2024 Raymond 0

Despite a disappointing 16th-place finish in the Championship last season, Sunderland remains concerned about the potential departure of their top talents to higher-tier clubs this summer. Jack Clarke, who scored 15 goals for Sunderland, consistently served as a beacon of hope even when the team’s performance was lackluster. His impressive form has not gone unnoticed, with newly-promoted Southampton, under Russell Martin, reportedly preparing a significant bid for him. Similarly, Sunderland’s homegrown goalkeeper, Anthony Patterson, has been the subject of transfer speculation, attracting interest from Premier League clubs like Liverpool and Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Southampton targeting Matt O’Riley at Celtic

29/05/2024 Raymond 0

An emerging report from GIVEMESPORT indicates that Southampton has now shifted their attention to Matt O’Riley at Celtic. The central midfielder, who previously played under Saints boss Martin at MK Dons, has thrived at Celtic since his transfer during the 2021/22 season. In the 2023/24 season, O’Riley scored 18 goals and assisted 13 in 37 Scottish Premiership matches, contributing significantly to Celtic’s league title win. Southampton is prepared to make a summer move for O’Riley, who Celtic reportedly value at £30 million. This development could suggest that Southampton’s interest in Dan Neil might be short-lived, or that the club may not be able to afford both O’Riley and Neil in the upcoming summer transfer window.

Sunderland may be in line for player boost as Black Cats wait on £30m Celtic decision

29/05/2024 Raymond 0

Sunderland may have received a significant potential boost regarding Dan Neil’s future at the club. The academy product has had another stellar season in the Championship, scoring four goals and assisting five in 42 league matches. Neil is contracted with Sunderland until the summer of 2026, but the club might consider selling him this summer, along with other talents like Anthony Patterson and Jack Clarke.

Recently promoted Southampton has shown interest in both Clarke and Neil after their victory over Leeds United in the Championship play-off final. The Saints have had their eye on Clarke for a while, and Russell Martin is reportedly a strong admirer of Neil. Despite this, Sunderland may have received a positive development regarding Neil’s future at the Stadium of Light. The question remains: Can Sunderland retain Dan Neil this summer?

There is no doubt about Neil’s quality and importance to Sunderland, as he continues to improve each season. Interest in the 22-year-old midfielder is inevitable, but Sunderland faces a difficult decision on whether to sell or keep him this summer. From the perspective of owner Kyril Louis-Dreyfus, selling Neil could bring in a substantial transfer fee. With his contract expiring in a couple of years, this summer might be the optimal time to sell.