Sunderland Eyeing Free Transfer for Hearts Captain Lawrence Shankland
Sunderland are reportedly interested in signing Hearts captain Lawrence Shankland on a free transfer. The 29-year-old striker is out of contract at the end of May, and Sunderland are among several clubs vying for his signature.
According to reporter Graeme Bailey, Sunderland and Ipswich Town are both keen on signing Shankland, who is open to playing in England. However, Bailey suggests that Sunderland’s interest may depend on whether they achieve promotion to the Premier League.
“He is a free transfer… Ipswich clearly see him as some sort of Liam Delap replacement, but Sunderland do like him too – would they want him if they get promoted? Perhaps not, but impossible to say,” Bailey said.
Shankland has been an impressive performer for Hearts, scoring 24 goals in 43 appearances this season. His form has caught the attention of several clubs, and he is expected to have a number of options to consider when his contract expires.
Sunderland’s interest in Shankland is likely driven by their need for a reliable goal-scorer. The Black Cats have been inconsistent in front of goal this season, and Shankland’s arrival could provide a much-needed boost to their attacking options.
However, Sunderland’s pursuit of Shankland may be complicated by their uncertain league status. The Black Cats are currently fourth in the Championship, eight points behind second-placed Sheffield United. If they fail to achieve promotion, they may need to reassess their transfer priorities.
In that scenario, Shankland may not be the top target for Sunderland. The club may instead focus on signing players who can help them achieve promotion next season.
On the other hand, if Sunderland do achieve promotion, they may not need Shankland’s services. The club may instead target more established Premier League players to strengthen their squad.
Sunderland’s situation is further complicated by the interest in their players from other clubs. Crystal Palace are reportedly interested in signing Chris Rigg and Jobe Bellingham, while Eliezer Mayenda is attracting interest from several Premier League clubs.
In the midst of this uncertainty, Sunderland’s pursuit of Shankland is a intriguing subplot. The Black Cats’ fans will be watching with interest to see how the situation unfolds.
Sunderland’s Promotion Push
Sunderland’s push for promotion is reaching its climax. The Black Cats have nine games remaining, and they need to maintain their momentum to achieve their goal.
Their next five fixtures are:
- Coventry City (away)
- Millwall (home)
- West Brom (away)
- Norwich City (away)
- Swansea City (home)
Sunderland’s promotion rivals, Leeds United, Sheffield United, and Burnley, will all be watching these games closely. The Black Cats need to pick up as many points as possible to stay in contention.
The stakes are high, and Sunderland’s players will need to perform under pressure. If they can achieve promotion, it will be a remarkable achievement for the club.
However, if they fall short, they will need to regroup and reassess their transfer priorities. In that scenario, Shankland may not be the top target for Sunderland.
The situation is fluid, and Sunderland’s fans will be watching with bated breath to see how the season unfolds.
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