AliousSunderland Plot Shock Swoop for Euro 2024 Star with 100 Career Goals – £17m Battle with Roma Intensifies
Sunderland have emerged as surprise contenders in the race to sign prolific Lyon striker Georges Mikautadze this summer, as the newly promoted Premier League club look to bolster their attacking ranks.
The Georgian international, who boasts 100 career club goals and 20 strikes in 37 appearances for his country, is currently attracting serious interest from Serie A giants Roma. Reports in Italy suggest Roma have tabled an €18 million (£15.2m) bid for the 24-year-old, though Lyon are holding out for a fee closer to €20 million (£17m). Negotiations are said to be progressing positively between the two clubs.
However, Sunderland are believed to have registered their interest and are exploring a potential deal, with manager Régis Le Bris eager to add a proven finisher to his squad following their top-flight return. While any move would represent a major financial commitment, the Black Cats have already shown significant intent in the market this summer—having secured the £30m signing of Habib Diarra and invested £15m in Belgian talent Noah Sadiki.
Mikautadze’s stock has risen sharply in recent months after a superb run of form at club and international level. Following a productive loan spell at Metz—where he netted 13 goals in 20 Ligue 1 games—he made a permanent switch to Lyon and added 11 more goals in the 2024–25 campaign.
His biggest breakthrough came at Euro 2024, where he played a starring role in Georgia’s historic debut tournament. Scoring in all three group games, including against Turkey, Czech Republic and Portugal, Mikautadze finished as joint-top scorer with five goals and was later awarded the prestigious Order of Honor by the Georgian president.
Known for his sharp movement, versatility across the front line, and clinical finishing, Mikautadze has become one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards. Though Roma currently lead the chase, the player’s desire for regular football in a top-five league could keep Sunderland in contention—especially if they step up their pursuit in the days ahead.
Lyon, meanwhile, are reportedly open to parting ways with at least one high-value player to ease financial pressure, and Mikautadze could be the key departure. Sunderland’s decision to move forward or wait in the wings may hinge on developments with other attacking targets as the transfer window unfolds.
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