- Sunderland are pushing to sign Igor Paixão but face resistance from Marseille, with Malick Fofana emerging as another option before the deadline.
Sunderland are exploring moves for Igor Paixão and Malick Fofana as they look to add another winger before the transfer window closes, according to Santi Aouna of Foot Mercato.
Sunderland push to sign Igor Paixão
The Black Cats have submitted a €30 million offer for Paixão, but negotiations with Marseille have been complicated by the French club's reluctance to respond quickly to their proposals. Meanwhile, Olympique de Marseille manager Bruno Genesio confirmed that he will not travel with the squad for the away game against Monaco, as he is facing thigh problems.
Marseille Manager reluctant to Lose the Brazilian Winger
Genesio also confirmed that they don’t want to sell Paixão in the final hours of the transfer window and are considering him one of the best players in their squad; however, Sunderland have already reached a verbal agreement on personal terms with Igor Paixão for a move in this window. Even though the club is open to selling the player, the manager is putting on the pressure to keep the player for another season.
Malick Fofana emerges as alternative target
Sunderland have also explored Malick Fofana as they prepare for the possibility that the Paixão deal cannot be completed. However, competition is already strong, with Roma having agreed personal terms with the Belgian winger and Hull City proposing a €35m verbal offer, according to Aouna.
Sunderland have not yet submitted an offer for Fofana, but their interest could accelerate if Paixão becomes unavailable.
One more winger remains Sunderland's priority
As the transfer window approaches its final hours, Sunderland wants to sign one more left winger and is yet to see how the saga unfolds in the upcoming hours