“Fabrizio Romano Drops Bombshell Update on £21m Striker Luis Suárez – Sunderland and Sporting in Transfer Tug-of-War!”

Sporting CP Lead Chase for Luis Javier Suárez Amid Sunderland Interest

Sporting CP are intensifying their pursuit of Almería striker Luis Javier Suárez, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, as the Colombian continues to attract strong interest across Europe — including from newly-promoted Premier League side Sunderland.

Suárez, who netted 31 goals in 43 games last season, is one of the hottest properties in the summer window following Almería’s relegation from La Liga. The 26-year-old is reportedly valued at around £21.1 million (€25 million).

Romano revealed on Monday that Sporting are prioritising Suárez as their top target to replace Viktor Gyökeres, who could be on the move amid serious interest from Arsenal and Chelsea. Talks between Suárez and Sporting have been ongoing since June, with the striker said to be keen on the project.

Sunderland, however, remain in the mix. Reports last week claimed the Black Cats submitted a bid that exceeded Almería’s internal valuation. Spanish journalist José Gómez Pérez suggested that Sunderland were hoping to lure Suárez with Premier League football, though the player is believed to favour a move that includes Champions League opportunities.

While Liverpool, Manchester United, Atlético Madrid and Juventus have all been linked, it’s Sporting who are currently leading negotiations. Suárez’s camp is reportedly open to the Portuguese side’s vision, but nothing is final, and if Gyökeres stays, Sunderland could re-enter the race.

Sunderland are having an ambitious summer window, having already secured deals for Enzo Le Fée, Habib Diarra, and Noah Sadiki, and reached an agreement for Belgian winger Chemsedine Talbi. They’ve also reportedly made a £25.3 million offer for Real Madrid striker Gonzalo García and are in talks with Sassuolo over Armand Laurienté.

Sunderland Eye Wolves Keeper Sam Johnstone

On the goalkeeping front, Sunderland are reportedly eyeing Wolves’ Sam Johnstone following the arrival of goalkeeping coach Neil Cutler, who previously worked with the 31-year-old at Villa and Wolves. The Black Cats are said to be exploring a loan move for Johnstone, who still has two years left on his contract at Molineux. Sunderland had initially looked at European options but turned to the domestic market after Marcin Bulka opted for a move to the Middle East.