Sunderland is reportedly preparing to break their club transfer record to sign Senegalese international midfielder Habib Diarra, who is seen as a potential replacement for Jobe Bellingham.
The Black Cats have reached an agreement with French club Strasbourg for the 21-year-old midfielder, with the deal potentially reaching £30.5 million (£27m initial fee plus £3.5m in add-ons).
A medical examination is scheduled for next week, and personal terms are anticipated to be agreed upon smoothly.
Diarra recently showcased his talent on the international stage by scoring for Senegal in their significant 3-1 win against England at the City Ground this month.
The 21-year-old, who has earned 11 caps for his country, impressed last season in Ligue 1, contributing to Strasbourg`s seventh-place finish.
Several Premier League teams have also been monitoring Diarra.
His representatives have reportedly held discussions with newly promoted Leeds United, and clubs like Everton and Brighton also expressed interest.
However, Sunderland is confident they have secured the transfer, surpassing the £20 million club record they set last month by signing Enzo Le Fee from Roma.
In other news, Sunderland is reportedly close to finalising a deal for Polish international goalkeeper Marcin Bulka.
The goalkeeper from Nice is said to be keen on a move to England, and negotiations between Sunderland and Nice are reportedly in advanced stages.
Bulka previously spent three years in Chelsea`s youth setup from 2016 to 2019.
He did not make a senior appearance for Chelsea before moving to Paris Saint-Germain.
Marcus Bellamy