The Black Cats and Fulham have been linked with Roma winger Matias Soule
Matias Soule of Roma celebrates against Hellas Verona
Roma winger Matias Soule
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Reported Sunderland target Matias Soule has addressed media speculation surrounding his future. The Roma winger has spoken on his future as reports claim his representative had travelled to England for talks with Sunderland and Fulham.
The comments he made have only fuelled the fire.
The Argentine winger returned to Italy ahead of Roma’s pre-season preparations and was questioned about his future after arriving at the airport. Asked whether he expected to remain with the Serie A club, Soulé told reporters: “Will I stay? Honestly, I don’t know.”
The 23-year-old added that he had “just arrived” before declining to send a message to Roma supporters.
That has led to suggestions his potential departure from the Italian capital this summer looks more likely.
Sunderland have recently been linked with an ambitious move for Soule as Regis Le Bris looks to strengthen the right side of his attack.
Reports in Italy previously suggested the Black Cats had made only a tentative enquiry, but the situation now appears to have developed.
Soule’s agent, Martin Guastadisegno, is reported to have travelled to England to meet representatives from Sunderland and Fulham regarding a possible transfer.
Roma are believed to value the former Juventus attacker at around £30m – which would deliver a significant profit for the Italian club.
Separate reports have claimed an approach from Sunderland would be “seriously considered” by Soulé, who is understood to be attracted by the prospect of playing in the Premier League.
Sunderland can also offer Europa League football after finishing seventh last season, though Fulham and other interested clubs could provide significant competition for his signature.
Soulé joined Roma from Juventus two summers ago in a deal worth an initial €26million, around £22million, after the Italian club beat Leicester City to his signature.
He made 41 appearances across all competitions last season, scoring seven goals and registering eight assists as Roma secured a return to the Champions League.
Sunderland transfer chief Florent Ghisolfi knows the player well after helping to bring him to Roma, and that existing relationship could prove useful should Sunderland decide to progress their interest.
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