Sunderland are now set to make a bid for a 19-cap international, who impressed for his country at the World Cup.
The Black Cats are looking to strengthen in the middle of the park, despite Granit Xhaka reiterating he wants to remain at the Stadium of Light, after Chelsea made an offer for the central midfielder.
Xhaka said: “Sunderland has been my home since day one. We are all very happy. I’ve decided to stay where I am; the most important thing is family. I’m ready to make history with them.”
The Switzerland star is through to the quarter-finals of the World Cup, where his side will take on Argentina, off the back of an equally impressive campaign at club level, in which he played his part in helping Regis Le Bris‘ side qualify for the Europa League.
However, following Dan Neil’s move to Rangers, Le Bris’ side have set their sights on another central midfielder, namely River Plate star Matias Galarza.
Sunderland set to make offer for Matias Galarza
According to a report from El Intransigente (via Sport Witness), Sunderland are set to make an offer for Galarza in the coming days, with River Plate also expecting approaches from Monza, RC Strasbourg and Getafe.
The Argentinian side are planning to sell the midfielder as soon as possible, and they have already informed him he doesn’t have a future at the club.
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Football FanCast’s Verdict |
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Credibility |
In truth, Sunderland are already well-stocked in the middle of the park, with Xhaka, Habib Diarra, Noah Sadiki and Enzo Le Fee at their disposal. As such, there are doubts over whether a new midfielder is necessary. |
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Finances |
River Plate have set an asking price of £4m, which should be more than affordable for a Premier League side. However, their price tag is now expected to increase. |
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Insight |
The Argentinian side may be in a position to demand a higher fee, off the back of the 19-cap Paraguay international making a name for himself at the World Cup, starting four matches and picking up a goal and an assist. |
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Impact |
The 24-year-old has often featured in an attacking role throughout his career to date, as well as on the left wing. As such, he may be more likely to challenge for Le Fee’s starting spot, rather than being deployed in a deeper area. |
Why signing Matias Galarza would be a gamble for Sunderland
As noted, the Paraguayan excelled at the World Cup prior to his side’s round of 16 exit at the hands of France, and he received plaudits from manager Gustavo Alfaro for his performance in the round of 32 triumph against Germany.
Alfaro said: “He played a fantastic, extraordinary match today, supporting JA, marking inside, pushing forward, helping Cubas, and working tirelessly all over the pitch.”
However, the Asuncion-born maestro is yet to prove himself in a major league at club level. In fact, he struggled to make any impact whatsoever on loan at Atlanta United last season, failing to register a goal or an assist in 13 matches in all competitions.
Should Galarza be available for £4m, it could be worth Sunderland taking a punt, but he is by no means showing signs that he would be a sure-fire success at the Stadium of Light.
