Whilst Sunderland are yet to get their summer business underway, they’ve still got European football to flex and have bigger ambitions than ever.

Just who arrives with that in mind is the big question. Much of the Black Cats’ summer has been focused on keeping Granit Xhaka, but their pursuit of Matias Soule and his recent transfer decision could yet steal the headlines.

Football FanCast’s Verdict

Credibility

Soule’s future is certainly in question. Roma need to raise funds through sales this summer, but their midfielder hasn’t made it easy. He’s already rejected a move to Saudi Arabia and is now “seriously” considering a move to the Premier League and Sunderland.

Finances

Roma have set their asking price at €35m (£30m). Whether that lasts the test of time as their desperation for sales grows remains to be seen. Sunderland could operate with the patience needed to find out.

Insight

There’s every chance that Soule can become Sunderland’s next Enzo Le Fee. The 23-year-old was in fantastic form in Italy last season, scoring seven goals and assisting another eight. He is ready-made for the Premier League.

Impact

Soule is undoubtedly good enough for a starting place on Wearside and that means his arrival would create questions for Regis Le Bris which could lead to some key departures.

Soule isn’t just looking to cash in with a move this summer. He’s got plenty of ambition with the Stadium of Light now firmly on his radar.

Soule “seriously” considering Sunderland move

According to Corriere dello Sport, as relayed by Sport Witness, Soule is “seriously” considering a move to Sunderland after rejecting the chance to join the Saudi Pro League. It’s a major boost for the Black Cats, with the winger’s ambitions clear after turning down the billionaires of the Middle East.

Sunderland’s most expensive signings of all time

Rank

Player

Fee

Signed from

Year

1

Habib Diarra

£27m

Strasbourg

2025

2

Simon Adingra

£21m

Brighton

2025

3

Enzo Le Fee

£19.3m

AS Roma

2025

4

Chemsdine Talbi

£18m

Club Brugge

2025

5

Brian Brobbey

£17.3m

Ajax

2025

Any deal is still in its early stages, but that should be enough encouragement for Sunderland to splash out in the coming months. The Roma man is valued at £30m and that would make him the most expensive signing in the club’s history.

Sunderland must go all out to sign Matias Soule

If Sunderland are to retain their status as a Europa League club, then signing Soule should be at the top of their to-do list. The Roma winger was excellent in Italy last season and £30m could quickly become a bargain if he continues to reach new heights with every year in senior football.

After 15 goal involvements last season, signing Soule would be the perfect way for Sunderland to commence their summer transfer business.