Leeds United appears the likely destination for Swedish star Linus Wahlqvist – but Sunderland appointing Stefan Schwarz could make things interesting.
Stefan Schwarz may have lifted titles at Benfica, Fiorentina and Valencia but he found a home at Sunderland. The former Sweden international was a bonafide fans’ favourite during his four years at the Stadium of Light, retiring only after their relegation in 2003, The Chronicle reports.
And it appeared that Schwarz would jump at the chance to return to Wearside this summer – possibly to replace David Moyes in the dugout.
“I spent four very good years at Sunderland and it is a club that I care very much for,” the 48-year-old, who helped Peter Reid’s side finish an extraordinary seventh in both 2000 and 2001, told The Chronicle.
“I think I understand the mentality of the Sunderland fans, and the culture of the area. Sunderland teams have to have an identity, and the players need to know their duties and responsibilities to each other.
“Of course if the chance came to manage Sunderland, I would be very interested.”
Despite his obvious passion and understanding of the city, Schwarz would certainly be something of a left-field appointment. So far, he’s only worked as an assistant at Helsingborgs in the club game while also spending time with Sweden’s Under-21 squad.
The upside, however, is that Schwarz could potentially bring some exciting, affordable talents to the Stadium of Light. According to Nt.se, 20-year-old right-back Linus Wahlqvist is set to leave homeland club FK Norrkoping this summer.
Leeding the way?
And Schwarz knows the highly-rated youngster well from his time with the national squad. Wahlqvist, who has been linked relentlessly with Leeds United in recent months, has been rewarded for his fine form with five caps for the senior Sweden side.
With Sunderland in need of reinforcements at right-back with Javier Manquillo’s loan from Atletico reaching its conclusion, Wahlqvist could be the kind of young, affordable talent the cash-strapped club need.
Javi Manquillo
And, if they take a risk and give Schwarz his first managerial role, it’s not beyond the realms of possibility that Leeds will have competition for Wahlqvist this summer.
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