Sunderland's Chris Rigg and Eliezer Mayenda
West Ham are interested in Sunderland's Chris Rigg and Eliezer Mayenda
(Image: CameraSport via Getty Images)
Sunderland remain at the centre of plenty of transfer speculation this summer. With Enzo Le Fée having completed a permanent move to the Stadium of Light, and following Jobe Bellingham’s departure for Borussia Dortmund, the Black Cats will be looking to sign players as well as keep hold of other prized assets ahead of the Premier League season.
With several months remaining before September’s transfer deadline passes, the likelihood is that Sunderland’s business is only just getting started.
And West Ham United are said to be keen on Chris Rigg and Eliezer Mayenda. Despite Sunderland securing a spot in the Premier League next season, it would still appear that they are facing plenty of competition from other clubs for their top players.
According to an update from The Guardian, Rigg and Mayenda are much sought-after. The Hammers are said to have identified the promotion-winning pair as prospective targets amid a summer rebuild that is likely going to require outgoings before there is enough PSR [profit and sustainability rules] wiggle room to allow incomings.
West Ham United manager Graham Potter
West Ham manager Graham Potter (Image: CameraSport via Getty Images)
Meanwhile, Regis Le Bris’ side will face Portuguese giants Sporting CP at Estádio Algarve on Monday July 21.
The fixture forms part of the club’s preparations for the 2025/26 Premier League season as the players embark on a training camp in Portugal which will offer Le Bris’ side a valuable test against elite European opposition.
The kick-off time against Sporting CP is yet to be confirmed. The match will be Sunderland’s second game during their trip, with another fixture set to be played on Saturday July 19 (opposition TBC).
This fixture adds to a growing pre-season schedule that includes games against Gateshead, South Shields, Heart of Midlothian, Hull City, and Real Betis, as the Black Cats prepare to kick off their Premier League campaign in August.
Make sure you don't miss out on the latest SAFC news by joining our free WhatsApp group. You can get all the breaking news and best analysis sent straight to your phone by clicking here to subscribe.
You can also subscribe to our free newsletter service. Click here to be sent all the day's biggest stories.