AliousSunderland have been linked with a potential triple swoop as the January transfer window heats up, following their 1-0 victory over Derby County at Pride Park on Tuesday night.
The Black Cats secured all three points thanks to a first-half strike from Eliezer Mayenda, who continues to shine under head coach Règis Le Bris, contributing to nine goals this season. However, the focus has shifted to off-field matters, with Sunderland’s sporting director Kristjaan Speakman actively pursuing reinforcements to strengthen the team’s promotion push.
### Sunderland Target Celtic Winger Luis Palma
Reports suggest that Sunderland are one of several clubs eyeing Celtic winger Luis Palma. The Honduras international has attracted interest from Stoke City, Swansea City, Queens Park Rangers, and various European clubs. According to *Football Insider*, the winger is keen to secure regular first-team football, which he has struggled to find at Celtic Park.
Palma’s move to Spanish side Rayo Vallecano earlier in the window collapsed due to a last-minute transfer ban imposed on the club, leaving the door open for a new suitor. Sunderland are reportedly in the mix, with Speakman looking to capitalize on the situation to bring the talented winger to Wearside.
### Preston Striker Emil Riis Jakobsen Also on Radar
Sunderland have also been linked with Preston North End forward Emil Riis Jakobsen. While the Danish striker’s name has surfaced in transfer speculation, he is reportedly not a top priority for the Black Cats. Riis is in the final six months of his contract, potentially making him an affordable option, but Sunderland seem to be focusing on other targets at this stage.
### Interest in Hibernian Youngster Reuben McAllister
Another player attracting Sunderland’s attention is Hibernian’s teenage midfielder Reuben McAllister. The 18-year-old, who spent the first half of the season on loan at Scottish League One side Cove Rangers, is out of contract this summer. According to the *Daily Record*, both Sunderland and Swansea City are monitoring McAllister’s situation closely.
McAllister, a product of Bristol City’s academy before moving to Hibernian in 2022, has made just one senior appearance for the Edinburgh club. His potential availability has piqued the interest of Championship sides, with Sunderland reportedly considering him as a long-term prospect.
Speakman’s Strategic Moves
Kristjaan Speakman appears to be juggling several transfer options as the Black Cats aim to bolster their squad for the second half of the season. With Sunderland sitting in a promising position in the Championship table, the addition of players like Palma, Riis, and McAllister could provide the depth and quality needed to sustain their promotion ambitions.
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