Sunderland’s Folarin Balogun transfer stance revealed after shock £40m talks claim
Sunderland have firmly denied reports claiming talks over a £40million move for Folarin Balogun
Sunderland sources have rubbished reports linking the club with a major-money move for AS Monaco striker Folarin Balogun.
Claims circulated on Monday suggesting the Black Cats had opened talks over a potential deal worth around £40million. However, The Echo understands those reports are wide of the mark, with club sources firmly denying that any discussions have taken place.
Sunderland’s position on the matter has been communicated strongly, with no active talks under way regarding a move for Balogun. The Black Cats are continuing to assess a number of potential additions as Régis Le Bris and the club’s recruitment team shape the squad ahead of the new campaign.
However, Balogun is not currently the subject of negotiations, despite reports elsewhere suggesting a significant transfer was being explored. The size of the fee mentioned would have made any prospective move one of the biggest in Sunderland’s history and inevitably attracted considerable attention among supporters.
The Echo has launched a new WhatsApp SAFC Channel to bring the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates direct to your phone. Simply click this link to join our SAFC WhatsApp channel.
As things stand, though, there is no substance to suggestions that the club have entered talks over a £40million deal. Transfer windows can move quickly, and Sunderland are expected to remain active before the deadline, particularly as they prepare for the additional demands of European football.
The club have already demonstrated a willingness to invest significantly when the right player and deal become available, but sources have been unequivocal in distancing Sunderland from the latest Balogun speculation. The forward may have been mentioned in wider reports concerning potential attacking targets, but there has been no contact or negotiation from Sunderland’s side.
Your next Sunderland read: Fabrizio Romano issues Amad Diallo update after shock Newcastle United transfer links