Sebastian Pocognoli has proven his worth on loan at Brighton and Hove Albion – and Sunderland should act when his West Brom deal runs out.
Though David Moyes refuted suggestions that Sunderland were preparing for life in the Championship, the club’s reported transfer activity suggests otherwise, as reported by The Chronicle.
After all, the likes of Ipswich Town defender Adam Webster, Blackburn Rovers loanee Sam Gallagher, Blackpool’s Bright Osayi-Samuel and former Birmingham midfielder Diego Fabbrini have been linked to the Stadium of Light in recent weeks.
Yet, the club should perhaps be commended for planning ahead rather than accused of simply giving up. And, with huge debts meaning Moyes has been forced to operate with one hand tied behind his back in the transfer market, it makes sense for Sunderland to target affordable players from lower down the English football ladder.
If they are available for free, even better. And, as it stands, left-back Sebastian Pocognoli will be without a club this summer and could be an ideal addition to Sunderland’s squad.
The 13-time Belgium international appears to have no future at West Brom as long as Tony Pulis, hardly an exponent of modern, attacking full-backs, remains in charge with his contract expiring in June.
Pocognoli has impressed in the Championship on loan at title chasing Brighton and Hove Albion this season, however, netting a stunning free-kick to edge them ever closer to promotion with a 2-1 win at QPR on Friday.
Yet, while he insists he is happy at the Amex, there is no indication yet that Brighton want to sign him permanently.
“I’ll concentrate on finishing as good as possible this season,” Pocognoli said in quotes reported b West Sussex Today. “After that, it’s up to the club to decide.
“I’m a free agent and we will see. I’m very happy here.”
If no deal is forthcoming, however, Sunderland should spring into action. Pocognoli knows how to win in the Championship and could prove an upgrade on Bryan Oviedo on the left of defence.
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