The latest transfer talk from Sunderland as one current Black Cats player is linked with moves to Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur.
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Sunderland loan star Lutsharel Geertruida is reportedly attracting ‘serious attention’ from clubs in the Premier League and across Europe as the Black Cats look to make a firm decision over his long-term future at the Stadium of Light.
The 20-times capped Netherlands international joined Sunderland on loan from RB Leipzig during what was a hectic summer transfer window and he went on to make 30 appearances in all competitions as Regis Le Bris’ side secured a seventh placed finish in the Premier League and a spot in next season’s Europa League.
Geertruida was handed a start in Sunderland’s last three games of a memorable season - but the Black Cats are yet to trigger a reported £20million permanent clause in the loan agreement they struck with Leipzig last August. There was speculation Liverpool were keen on a January move for the versatile defender and the Reds were said to have made an enquiry over a possible deal during the final days of the transfer window.
Speaking at the time, Black Cats boss Le Bris said of Geertruida: “I think his main strength is versatility, and probably in this industry, the most usual pathway is to stay in one position. I think we have to value his versatility, because it's his strength. And for him, it's a complex situation, because he's really useful for the squad. Often the 11th [for] game time for 10 positions on the pitch, but still the 11th, which is really good in the Premier League.
“And the ambition to be a starter is normal for a footballer. The World Cup, with this future in his mind, is really important as well. So many things are combined, and can add the complexity of the transfer window, with many rumours, many opportunities. But facts are facts, it's just the end of the process, do you want to sign or not, and it wasn't so clear finally.”
Doubt still remains over whether Geertruida will be a Sunderland player next season - and SportsBoom have now claimed Liverpool retain their interest in the Dutch international and would face competition from Aston Villa, Everton, Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace. They also claim Geertruida has interest from Italy, Germany, France and Spain and describe a decision over his future as ‘looming’.