The £28m forward who could solve Sunderland's striker problem - if West Ham don't get there first
Sunderland could make a huge forward signing at the end of the season.
Sunderland have enjoyed a stand-out first season back in the Premier League and will look forward keenly to being able to kick on in the division next term.
The Black Cats need just a couple more victories to all-but secure their top-flight status for next campaign. Currently sat in 12th place after just one win in their last six, Regis Le Bris’ side remain 12 points above the bottom three and clear of any immediate danger.
Sunderland’s biggest strength this season has been their defensive solidity, boasting the joint-sixth best defensive record in the league. But they have the third-worst attack with just 29 goals, better than only Wolves and Nottingham Forest. It is clear that improving in attacking areas will be a key focus for Sunderland this summer, and an early forward target may have emerged as the North East side seek to upgrade their striking options.
Sunderland links with AC Milan star emerge
According to reports by AS, Sunderland are one of the interested parties in AC Milan striker Santiago Giménez, amidst the belief that the Mexican may move on this summer.
Despite only signing for the Serie A giants in February 2025 for a reported £28 million, Giménez has endured several months out following an ankle operation which has meant his last appearance was on October 28.
The club are believed to be forming a shortlist of players who they are open to selling this summer, with the 24-year-old amongst those after making just 11 appearances this season, scoring once. Other Rossoneri stars who could reportedly be up for sale are David Odogu, Pervis Estupiñán, Ruben Loftus‑Cheek, Christopher Nkunku, and Niclas Füllkrug – though Giménez is ‘at the top of that list’.
Sunderland are thought to be amongst the clubs ‘showing interest’ in Giménez, along with West Ham United. Both Premier League clubs might look to launch a swoop for the Mexican international this summer, particularly if he shines for one of the host nations Mexico at the World Cup.
Giménez signing could solve Sunderland’s striker issue
Sunderland have been a revelation back in the Premier League this season but will know that becoming more prolific in front of goal is key to maintaining their top-flight status for the long term.
Wilson Isidor began the season strongly but none of his four goals have come since October, while Brian Brobbey and Enzo Le Fée share the title of being the Black Cats’ top scorer with five each in all competitions.
While Sunderland’s young squad and frequent rotation by Le Bris certainly play a role in their lack of a lethal goalscorer at present, this is surely an issue which will need to be solved if the Black Cats are to become a stable Premier League side next term. Giménez scored 65 goals in 105 appearances for former club Feyenoord and could certainly be that man.
AC Milan are reportedly looking for a price of around €22m (£19.3m) for Giménez and both Sunderland and West Ham could go head-to-head for his signature, with the Hammers hoping also to still be a Premier League side come the start of the summer. With a big year for the player coming up and a home World Cup on the horizon, it will be intriguing to see where he ends up next.