AliousSunderland are set to lose out on the signing of a highly sought-after EFL attacker as the January transfer window nears its end.
After an impressive start to the window with the loan acquisition of Enzo Le Fee from Roma, Sunderland have struggled to secure other key targets. Both Tom Cannon and Ben Brereton Diaz, who were heavily pursued, ultimately chose moves to promotion rivals Sheffield United. Similarly, Sunderland’s interest in Ajax striker Chuba Akpom was rebuffed, with the player reportedly uninterested in a switch to Wearside.
Now, Sunderland are facing another setback as Hull City prepare to finalize the signing of one of their key targets, Aston Villa’s Louie Barry.
### Louie Barry Set for Hull City Move
Barry, a 21-year-old attacker who impressed during the first half of the season on loan at Stockport County with 15 League One goals, had been linked to Sunderland earlier in the window. However, reports from James Hoggarth reveal that Barry is now undergoing a medical ahead of a loan move to Hull City.
While details of the deal remain scarce, it is understood the agreement will not include an option to buy. Hull manager Ruben Selles appears to have secured the highly promising forward, leaving Sunderland to reassess their options.
### Why Sunderland Lost Out
Aston Villa reportedly prioritized ensuring guaranteed game time for Barry in his next loan move, a condition Hull City could meet. With Hull suffering from a lack of wingers due to injuries to Liam Millar and Mohamed Belloumi, Barry is expected to take on a central role in their attack.
In contrast, Sunderland could not offer the same assurances. Despite limited options on the left flank, the impending return of Romaine Mundle and Tommy Watson meant Barry would face stiff competition for regular minutes.
Hull’s ability to guarantee Barry a key role likely proved decisive, leaving Sunderland to reflect on another missed opportunity in their pursuit of attacking reinforcements.
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