Sunderland are reportedly rivalling a number of sides to sign this Leeds United star for free this summer.
Sunderland go into another crucial summer transfer window. But right now, the club doesn’t even have a manager in place.
The Black Cats are still searching for their next manager but it’s claimed that Kristjaan Speakman is pressing on with the club’s transfer plans as normal.
And once again, signing a new striker and some extra firepower in the final third will be Speakman’s main priority in the summer transfer window; especially so with Jack Clarke potentially leaving.
Expect Sunderland to utilise the loan and free markets this summer, as well as spending a bit of money on the right players.
And now, the Black Cats have been linked with one potential free agent swoop.
Sunderland join race to sign Ian Poveda
Reports from the Spanish language news website Diario AS now say that Colombian international Ian Poveda is wanted by Sheffield Wednesday, Burnley, Luton Town, and Sunderland this summer.
The 24-year-old joined Sheffield Wednesday on loan from Leeds during the winter transfer window and went on to become a huge fan favourite in South Yorkshire.
He featured 10 times in the Championship and grabbed one assist, though his energy and creativity in attack played a huge role in the Owls’ eventual 20th place finish.
He’s set to be released this summer with no indications that he’ll remain with Leeds United, regardless of what division they’re playing in next summer.
Why Ian Poveda would be a risky signing for Sunderland
This certainly doesn’t feel like a very Sunderland signing.
Poveda is 24 years old, and whilst not old, his recent injury record makes him something of a risk for whoever wants to sign him.
He missed a lot of games for Sheffield Wednesday owing to recurring muscle issues, having played just 25 league games for Leeds in five seasons at the club.
That’s not only down to injuries, but a lack of form and several loan spells as well, so Poveda is certainly a player who comes with some baggage.
Still, with Sheffield Wednesday he looked like he really turned a corner; playing in a very attacking and expressive system under Danny Rohl, Poveda was able to flourish, and Sheffield Wednesday are already reportedly keen on bringing him back for next season.
He can play on either wing or as a no.10. Like Clarke, he’s a player who can pick up the ball deep and take it forward, and he can also provide that spark in the final third, although his goals tally certainly needs to be worked on.
All in all, if Sunderland can sign a fit Poveda than it would be a very good capture. But the chances of Poveda lasting a whole season seem slim.