Sunderland have reportedly held concrete talks with Matías Soulé’s representative as Roma wait for an official offer for the Argentine winger
Sunderland have reportedly been handed encouragement in their pursuit of Roma attacker Matías Soulé, although an official offer will be required to advance negotiations.
According to Italian outlet Romanews.eu, Soulé’s agent has initiated “concrete contacts” in England with both Sunderland and Fulham as the 23-year-old considers his future.
The report claims the ball is now in the court of the two Premier League clubs, who would need to approach Roma sporting director Tony D’Amico with an offer matching the Italian club’s valuation. Roma are said to have set a starting asking price of €35million – approximately £29.8million at the latest exchange rate.
Soulé’s own ambitions could potentially strengthen Sunderland’s position. The Argentine reportedly has no interest in joining a club unable to offer European football next season. Romanews.eu therefore suggests Sunderland would be his preferred destination ahead of Fulham, with Régis Le Bris’ side preparing to compete in the Europa League following last season’s seventh-place Premier League finish.
Sunderland director of football Florent Ghisolfi also knows Soulé from his time at Roma, giving the Black Cats an important connection should they decide to formalise their interest. Soulé is now expected to become one of the most sought-after players on the summer market. Sunderland’s reported contact represents an encouraging first step, but there remains a considerable difference between holding talks with an agent and satisfying Roma’s near-£30million demands. The next significant development will be whether Sunderland or Fulham submit an official bid during the transfer window.
Continue Reading