19-year-old exciting Sunderland AFC youngster eyed by European clubs for January move

One of the Black Cats’ hottest young prospects be on the move in January.
Benji Kimpioka waits to come on as a substitute for Sunderland AFC.Benji Kimpioka waits to come on as a substitute for Sunderland AFC.
Benji Kimpioka waits to come on as a substitute for Sunderland AFC.

According to reports, various European clubs are eyeing a deal to sign 19-year-old Sunderland forward Benji Kimpioka when the transfer window opens next month.

The youngster’s contract set to expire at the end of the season and with talks between agent and club no further forward, the North East outfit may be tempted to sell for a fee this winter.

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The future of the Sweden under-21 international has been a worry at the Stadium of Light for a number of months now – with memories of Joel Asoro and Josh Maja still fresh in supporter’s memories.

Martin Kettle – Kimpioka’s agent – claimed in the summer that the academy graduate was happy on Wearside but he would only commit his future to Sunderland if regular game time was forthcoming.

“I think he is ready to train and play for Sunderland’s first team,” Kettle explained to the Roker Rapport Podcast. “From what Benjamin has told me I know that Mr [Jack] Ross does not plan to lend him out.”

The request angered the now ex-Sunderland manager Jack Ross and Kimpioka’s first-team action decreased.

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Under new boss Phil Parkinson, Kimpioka was given a chance to shine and netted stoppage-time equaliser during last month’s 1-1 draw with Coventry City.

However, the player’s short-term future remains in doubt with Kimpioka highly thought of by several clubs on the continent.

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