According to Tom Bogert, Sunderland are keen to sign Matthew Hoppe, who was wanted by Arsenal, Everton and Crystal Palace in 2021.
What’s the story?
Well, the United States international impressed during his time with Schalke 04 in Germany, where he even drew comparisons to Robert Lewandowski after lighting up the Bundesliga.
Hoppe was available for under £10m as Schalke 04 racked up £185m worth of debt, which attracted attention from the Premier League trio of Arsenal, Everton and Crystal Palace.
It was also said that Wolves and Newcastle were considering a bid for Hoppe.
Eventually, the 21-year-old joined Mallorca, where he failed to score in seven appearances last season.
Despite that, Bogert believes Sunderland are interested, while Middlesbrough have also submitted a $3m (£2.5m) bid for the American.
Hoppe – who sees Harry Kane as a role model – has also attracted interest from Pep Guardiola in the past, so despite a difficult time in Spain, he clearly has talent.
Sunderland left behind in race to sign 2021 Arsenal, Everton & Crystal Palace target
If Alex Neil is serious about bringing Hoppe to the Stadium of Light, then he must act quickly.
According to 90min, Middlesbrough are now in advanced talks with Mallorca after submitting their £2.5m bid, and the striker is said to be keen on a move to Teeside.
That is despite interest from several Major League Soccer sides.
Hoppe is determined to impress Gregg Berhalter ahead of the World Cup in November, and prove he can lead the line for the United States in Qatar.
Additionally, his international colleague Zack Steffen is already at Middlesbrough after signing on a season-long loan from Manchester City.
Evidently, there is plenty for Hoppe to like about Middlesbrough, so Sunderland have a difficult task on their hands if they are to lure him to Wearside.
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