We’ve actually lost count of how many times the Portuguese press have said Sporting have decided to use their buying option over Sebastian Coates from Sunderland.
The Uruguayan defender is on loan in Portugal since January on a temporary deal running until June 2017, but can be bought for €5m at any time.
Now it seems Sporting have one more reason to do it quickly, as A Bola are reporting today that Coates’ recent performances have been attracting the interest from other clubs.
The newspaper claims that Milan is one of them, even though Sporting would have no competition because it’s their right to buy the player for a fixed price. Sunderland’s hands are tied on this.
We reckon the only way that the Black Cats could make a sale to other club would be if Coates doesn’t find an agreement with Sporting.
The difference of the salaries paid by Sunderland and the offer made by Sporting has already been said to be big. But still, Coates is very well rated in Portugal and the club shouldn’t be missing this opportunity.
Milan interest now being repeatedly reported could turn Coates head, especially if the financial package is much better. That’s good for Sunderland on two counts, if they can find an agreement then Sporting are likely to pay the €5m ASAP, and if not then Coates is worth more on the open market.
