Black Cats connected with Copenhagen defender Gabriel Pereira, while Premier League rivals Burnley also circled.
Sunderland’s search for more defensive reinforcements has led them to one of Denmark’s best players, with reports linking Régis Le Bris’ side with a move for FC Copenhagen centre-back Gabriel Pereira.
According to TEAMtalk, Sunderland and Burnley, both Premier League newcomers, are interested in the 25-year-old Brazilian, who has established himself as a vital player at the Danish champions since his arrival last summer. Pereira has started all five of Copenhagen’s league games this season, demonstrating his significance to manager Jacob Neestrup’s strategy.
According to the same source, officials from Sunderland and Burnley have discussed a possible transfer, while Bundesliga club FC Köln is also keeping an eye on the situation. However, Pereira’s preference at this point appears to be to stay in Copenhagen, with the player allegedly eager to test himself in this season’s enlarged Champions League league stage.
Copenhagen stance and price tag
Copenhagen has placed a valuation of €10 million to €12 million (about £8.6 million to £10.3 million), a fee that would represent a large spend for Sunderland but would be consistent with the club’s stated objective of targeting players with European experience.
Pereira has made 51 appearances in all competitions since moving to Denmark, scoring four goals. Known for his prowess in duels and aerial presence, he was previously linked with a move to Serie A club Sassuolo, who remain interested and may renew their chase before the transfer window shuts.
For the time being, the athlete is claimed to be enjoying life in Denmark, where he has formed close bonds with Copenhagen followers and coaches. His desire to represent the club in Europe is thought to be a big reason for his reluctance to leave during the current transfer window.
Sunderland’s defensive picture
The Black Cats began their Premier League campaign with a 3-0 victory over West Ham United, but Le Bris is still looking to enhance his defence. Dan Ballard started with Jenson Seelt, with summer signing Omar Alderete joining in the second half.
Pereira’s combination of experience and physicality appears to fit Sunderland’s recruitment strategy under sporting director Kristjaan Speakman, however the Champions League aspect may be important in the near term. Sunderland are expected to monitor the situation in case of any late movement.
Meanwhile, Sunderland could see departures before the deadline. Hibernian, a Scottish Premiership club, is reportedly interested in versatile defender Nectar Triantis.
Triantis excelled north of the border during a loan spell last season and is expected to return, but Nixon writes that the Australian may want to play elsewhere in Europe rather than return to the SPFL. Sunderland are thought to be open to bids, with competition for central defence positions increasing following Alderete’s arrival.
The Burnley competition
Burnley boss Scott Parker is anxious to recruit defensive reinforcements following his team’s 3-0 loss to Tottenham Hotspur on the opening day. The Clarets surrendered 78 goals in the Premier League last season, and Parker is thought to see Pereira as a top target.
Sunderland’s participation in the race, along with Cologne and Sassuolo, means Burnley faces stiff competition. Copenhagen is also under no pressure to sell, especially with Champions League revenue on the horizon, giving prospective suitors a difficult challenge.
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