Sunderland AFC set to secure transfer which could turn into a €23m deal

Over the past few days, there have been discussions about a possible transfer of Enzo Le Fee to Sunderland; the Northern Echo first reported the Black Cats’ interest.According to that report, Sunderland was interested in the midfield player but was just waiting to see what Roma wanted to do with him during the January transfer window. Gianluca Di Marzio, an Italian journalist, then disclosed that Sunderland was getting closer to signing Le Fee after surpassing Real Betis in the competition. They would, however, have to contend with fierce competition from Lille, a French team that was reportedly eager as well.

Gazetta dello Sport has reported that the 24-year-old is scheduled for a medical at some point today (9th January), ahead of a reunion with Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris, who knows him well from his time at Lorient. This suggests that things have now progressed even further in Sweden’s favor. The player will be on loan, according to the Gazetta dello Sport report, but Sunderland will need to pay €23 million to make the move permanent if they are promoted to the Premier League this season.

It would be a huge statement to sign Enzo Le Fee.

If Sunderland is successful in closing this deal, it will serve as a clear indication to the other Championship clubs that they are capable of luring such talented European players. As previously stated, Regis Le Bris is very familiar with Le Fee, which is probably what made the Black Cats decide whether they had a chance to sign him this winter. From the age of eight until the summer of 2023, the French midfielder played for Lorient, France, under the coaching of Le Bris.

He earned a transfer to Rennes after his time at Lorient, but he would only stay there for a season before being approached by the Italian powerhouses, Roma. Despite having trouble finding playing time at Roma this season, Le Fee has made three Europa League appearances and six Serie A appearances. He contributes to both the attacking and defensive play, and his performances in Ligue 1 in his early 20s demonstrated his talent in the middle of the park. Additionally, if he signs with the Stadium of Light, his Europa League experience will be priceless. Sunderland is in a strong position, as evidenced by the fact that they beat teams like Real Betis and Lille to sign Le Fee.

Sunderland has a good chance of getting promoted.

As previously stated, Sunderland will need to pay Roma €23 million to finalize the deal for Le Fee if they are promoted to the Premier League this season. Given how well the Black Cats have performed in the first half of the season, that is definitely not out of the question. After taking over as manager in the summer, Regis Le Bris has given the team renewed hope that they will be able to return to the Premier League. With an outstanding 50 points from 26 games—14 of which were victories—Sunderland is currently ranked fourth in the Championship.

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