Sunderland could be looking to Germany for new recruits.
The Sunderland Echo reports the Black Cats are ready to go shopping in Germany’s second tier this summer, regardless of whether a proposed takeover by a German-based consortium goes ahead.
Even Sunderland’s next manager could be German, with odds cut on Jens Keller’s appointment over the past 24 hours.
But which Bundesliga 2 stars should they be targeting? We’ve picked out three potential additions…
Lasse Sobiech [FC St Pauli]
The former Germany Under-21 international dropped down a division from Hamburg in 2014, signing for St Pauli, initially on loan. Now 26, Sobiech has established himself as one of the second tier’s top centre-backs and a summer move beckons. Sunderland could have gaps to fill at the back even if John O’Shea fails to return, and the six-foot-five star would be a welcome addition.
Former Hamburger SV defender Lasse Sobiech
Steven Skrzybski [Union Berlin]
One of the stars of Keller’s Union Berlin side which finished a place outside the automatic promotion spots in third last season, the 24-year-old scored eight goals and made another five from a predominantly right-wing role. Sunderland could do with strengthening in Skrzybski’s position, although he recently signed a new contract until 2020.
Union Berlin’s Steven Skrzybski [second left]
Collin Quaner [Huddersfield Town]
Alright, so he’s no longer a Bundesliga 2 player, but you try explaining that in a character-restricting headline. Quaner, a bustling six-foot-three striker-cum-right-winger, scored seven goals in twice as many matches for Keller’s Union Berlin last season to earn a January move to Huddersfield – where he could find his place under threat should the Terriers continue adding to their forward line. Sunderland could do with a player of his presence after losing Victor Anichebe to China.
Huddersfield Town striker Collin Quaner [left]
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
