Lutsharel Geertruida will not join Sunderland this summer, with the Black Cats deciding against signing him on a permanent basis.
Journalist Philipp Hinze reports that a decision has been made at the Stadium of Light. Geertruida will not be staying at Sunderland this summer.
Sunderland decision made
The 25-year-old joined Sunderland in the summer on loan from RB Leipzig. That deal includes an option for Sunderland to make it permanent for €23m. That is an option to buy rather than an obligation, though.
And it seems Sunderland have decided against buying the defender this summer. Hinze reports that the decision has been made and there is ‘internal clarity’ on the matter.
Geertruida will initially return to Leipzig at the end of the season. However, the ‘chances are big’ that the 25-year-old won’t continue in the Bundesliga either. A permanent solution is being sought.
Initial enquiries have already taken place at the Bundesliga club. Geertruida has a market in one of Europe’s top five leagues. Potential interested clubs and offers are being carefully assessed and evaluated.
The defender has been a regular for Sunderland this season. He’s made 25 appearance sin the Premier League, although he’s only featured in 49% of the available minutes. Where he ends up, remains to be seen.
Liverpool interest?
There may be interest in the Premier League. Reports in England have linked Liverpool with an interest over the last few months.
The defender worked under Arne Slot at Feyenoord and he, reportedly, retains an interest in his former player. A deal was explored in the January transfer window, but Lutsharel Geertruida eventually ended up staying at Sunderland.
But now that he’s returning to Leipzig in the summer, the door may be opening for the Reds. And with the German side keen to move him on, there’s certainly an opportunity for them to explore should they want further defensive cover this summer.
