Sunderland talks continue as Liverpool reach agreement with Lutsharel Geertruida and a replacement edges closer
Sunderland are locked in talks with Liverpool over the future of Lutsharel Geertruida, with the defender’s potential move now rated as increasingly likely ahead of the transfer deadline.
According to David Ornstein, any deal remains dependent on multiple moving parts. The proposed transfer would require RB Leipzig to formally terminate Geertruida’s existing loan spell at Sunderland, while Liverpool would need to reach an agreement with both clubs.
Sunderland’s position is central to the process. Ornstein reports that the Black Cats want a replacement secured – with an agreement said to be close on an option – as well as financial compensation, before giving approval for the loan to be ended early. The chances of the move being completed have been placed at around 75 per cent, although Liverpool are understood to have alternative options should complications arise.
Ornstien said: “Liverpool exploring deal for Lutsharel Geertruida. Opportunity proposed to LFC & talks under way about taking over Sunderland loan of RB Leipzig centre-back. SAFC looking at replacements in case Dutch int’l departs.”
Further momentum was added by Florian Plettenberg, who reported that Liverpool have already reached a full agreement with Geertruida on personal terms. RB Leipzig, who have the defender under contract until 2029, are also expected to give the green light, with Liverpool having identified Geertruida as their preferred option after weeks of searching for a new right-back. Plettenberg added that Liverpool and Sunderland are now in direct contact, underlining the Black Cats’ importance in finalising any deal.
He said: “Understand that Lutsharel Geertruida and Liverpool have already reached a full agreement. RB Leipzig (contract until 2029) are set to give the green light. As revealed exclusively, the search for a new right-back at #LFC have been ongoing for weeks - now Geertruida is set to be the chosen one. Liverpool and Sunderland are in direct contact.”
Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano added: “More on Geertruida exclusive news. The agreement between Liverpool and Lutsharel Geertruida was done days ago, never an issue on personal terms. Geertruida wants the move, he knows Arne Slot very well. It’s on Liverpool, Sunderland and RB Leipzig to understand how to find a solution in next hours.”
The Echo has launched a new WhatsApp SAFC Channel to bring the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates direct to your phone. Simply click this link to join ourSAFC WhatsApp channel.
Geertruida joined Sunderland on a season-long loan last summer and has remained part of the club’s planning, even amid limited first-team minutes in recent weeks. However, the scale of Liverpool’s interest – combined with the Premier League pull and a potential reunion with Arne Slot – has accelerated discussions in the final days of the window.
With Sunderland pushing to finalise a replacement and compensation package, and Leipzig prepared to sanction an early recall, the situation now appears finely balanced. While the deal is not yet complete, all three clubs remain in dialogue as the clock ticks towards deadline day.
Continue Reading