Latest developments
- Sunderland are working on signing Armand Lauriente.
- Sunderland and Sassuolo have reached an agreement over the transfer fee.
- Régis Le Bris is understood to be a big admirer of the Frenchman.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (4.5/5): Sunderland set to sign Lauriente
Sunderland have started their summer transfer window on the front foot, having already signed Simon Adingra, Habib Diarra, Enzo Le Fee, Chemsdine Talbi, and Noah Sadiki. Now, they are set to bring in French winger Armand Lauriente to Stadium of Light from Sassuolo.
That is according to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, who is one of the best in the business.
Value (4/5): Fee agreed
The newly-promoted Premier League side have agreed to pay €20million fixed fee to their Italian counterparts for the 26-year-old's services. A reasonable sum for an experienced winger who scored 18 goals in Serie B last term.
Suitability (3.5/5): Modern-day wide-forward
The Frenchman is known for his pace and dribbling. He starts out wide but consistently looks to move inside in possession. His intensity out of possession is also a major bonus for any system. However, he needs to work on his decision making.
Upgrade? (4/5): Challenge for Mundle
Lauriente is capable of playing all across the frontline, but he mainly thrives as a left-winger. As such, his direct competition would be Romaine Mundle, who enjoyed a promising campaign in the Championship. Le Bris, who is understood to be the Sassuolo star's admirer, would definitely enjoy such options in his attack.
Logic (4/5): Premier League move
Having impressed in France and Italy, Lauriente appears ready to show his skill sets in the Premier League and has already agreed personal terms with the Black Cats.
Whisper+ verdict: 20/25
A “here we go” from Romano means this transfer is as good as done.
