The Black Cats have been linked with a move for Sassuolo striker Armand Lauriente
Armand Laurienté of US Sassuolo
US Sassuolo striker Armand Lauriente(Image: Getty Images)
Sunderland are reportedly in talks over a sensational swoop for Sassuolo striker Armand Lauriente. The 26-year-old is well known to head coach Regis Le Bris, with the pair having worked together at French club Lorient.
He moved to Serie A with Sassuolo in 2022 and has since become a smash hit with the Italian side. The French striker hit 18 goals last season as they clinched the Serie B title and promotion back to the top-flight.
It would be a significant signing for Sunderland, who are reportedly looking for more firepower ahead of their Premier League challenge this season.
The Black Cats currently have Wilson Isisdor and Eliezer Mayenda as their two striker options, but neither have been tested at the top level.
There is plenty of excitement over Mayenda's potential on Wearside, with the Spaniard still only 20 years of age, but Sunderland are wary of placing too much pressure on his young shoulders.
Lauriente began his career in France with Rennes, but it was a move to Lorient, initially on loan, that saw him establish himself as a striker of note.
He hit 13 goals in 91 appearances for the French side but also added 14 assists, earning a move to Italy with Sassuolo in 2022.
Armand Laurienté of US Sassuolo
Armand Lauriente(Image: Getty Images)
Armand Laurienté of US Sassuolo
Armand Lauriente with the MVP award(Image: Getty Images)
Despite relegation to Serie B in 2024, he stayed with the Neroverdi and spearheaded their promotion challenge this past season, ending the campaign as the second top goalscorer in the division behind Francesco Esposito of Spezia.
Sunderland have transfer funds available after selling Jobe Bellingham to Borussia Dortmund and Tommy Watson to Brighton, with Lauriente valued at around €15m.
The Black Cats have already signed Enzo Le Fee on a permanent deal from Roma after he impressed during a loan spell last season, helping the club clinch promotion at Wembley.
Now they are hoping Le Bris' relationship with Lauriente can help secure a deal to Wearside this summer.
He only played four times under the Frenchman, but repors in Italy suggest talks are already under way.