Having already completed a significant amount of transfer activity ahead of the new Premier League season, Sunderland are far from finished as they look to sign a £30 million France international.
Sunderland had a lot of work to do ahead of their return to the Premier League, as the gap between the top flight and Championship appears to be growing ever wider.
However, the Wearsiders have been active in their attempts to boost Regis Le Bris’ squad, with former Arsenal star Granit Xhaka leading a growing list of new recruits.
The Black Cats added another new recruit ahead of the new season with the signing of former West Ham left-back Arthur Masuaku, who most recently represented Besiktas.
Now, Sunderland have their sights set on Sevilla star Loic Badé but face stiff competition from one Bundesliga side as they look to put the final touches to their squad.
Loic Bade in action during FC Schalke 04 v FC Sevilla - Pre-Season Friendly
Photo by Rene Nijhuis/MB Media/Getty Images
Sunderland remain ‘very keen’ on Loic Bade
According to Sebastian Denis, writing on FootMercato.net, Sunderland retain a strong interest in Badé, who looks set to leave Sevilla this summer.
The La Liga giants will reportedly demand a fee of around 35 million euros (approximately £30 million) for his signature. Although Bayer Leverkusen are in advanced talks, Sunderland remain one to watch, according to Denis.
The report states: “Leverkusen are now in talks with their Spanish counterparts. The 25-year-old defender is keen on joining the German club, who will be playing in the Champions League next season.
“Sevilla are asking for €35 million, and we’ll also have to keep an eye on Sunderland’s attitude, as they’re still very keen after making Badé one of their defensive priorities.”
Bade could finally make Premier League move
Sunderland have brought in 10 new signings to date ahead of their return to the top flight as they look to defy the odds and avoid relegation.
Whilst Xhaka is undoubtedly the biggest name on that list, Badé would arguably have the best profile of the signings as he brings a mix of top-flight experience and youth to the squad.
Regis Le Bris, Manager of Sunderland, looks on prior to the pre-season friendly match between South Shields and Sunderland at 1st Cloud Arena on July 12, 2025
Photo by George Wood/Getty Images
At 25 years old, he has played in both the Europa League and the UEFA Conference League during his time at Sevilla and Rennes, respectively, and earned a French cap during their 2025 Nations League campaign.
He has come close to joining the Premier League before, with a proposed move to Nottingham Forest collapsing in 2023. Sunderland will have to fight off stiff competition to make his move a reality in 2025.