AliousSunderland entered the January transfer window in search of attacking reinforcements, ultimately securing a deal for Liverpool youngster Jayden Danns on deadline day. However, the teenager has yet to make an appearance due to a back injury discovered during his medical, leaving fans questioning the move.
While the acquisitions of Enzo Le Fee and Wilson Isidor have been widely praised, doubts remain over the club’s striker situation, with just 13 Championship games left and the possibility of a playoff run. Sporting director Kristjaan Speakman is expected to prioritize strikers once again in the summer, a recurring theme for Sunderland in recent windows.
As has often been the case, Speakman could revisit past targets, with several forwards linked to the Black Cats in January. One name that could resurface is Chuba Akpom.
### **Chuba Akpom thriving at Lille after Sunderland links**
Akpom was a reported target for Sunderland in January after Ajax made him available for transfer. The former Middlesbrough striker attracted interest from several clubs, including Fiorentina and Lille, with the latter securing his services on loan with an option to buy.
Since arriving in France, Akpom has wasted no time making an impact. An injury to Lille’s star forward Jonathan David opened the door for him to feature, and he has seized the opportunity. The 29-year-old found the net against Le Havre and Rennes, making an immediate statement in Ligue 1.
The financial details of Lille’s option to buy remain unclear, but Ajax originally paid over £12 million for him in 2023, and his contract runs until 2028. Any permanent deal is likely to demand an eight-figure sum.
### **Has Sunderland missed their chance on Akpom?**
While Akpom would have been an excellent addition for Sunderland on loan, a summer move now appears unlikely. At 29 and potentially commanding a fee close to £10 million, he doesn’t fit the recruitment model under Kyril Louis-Dreyfus.
However, Akpom’s resurgence in France suggests Speakman’s scouting network continues to identify quality targets. The challenge remains beating rival clubs to these signings before their value skyrockets.
Regardless of Sunderland’s promotion hopes, the summer transfer window is shaping up to be another pivotal one at the Stadium of Light.
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