Bayer Leverkusen’s Ernest Poku finds his future uncertain and Sunderland are actively pursuing his signature.
The 22-year-old played across the attack for the German club last season, featuring 29 times in the Bundesliga and contributing to ten goals. It was his first full season with Leverkusen, who signed him from AZ Alkmaar in 2025.
Sport Witness have covered interest from the Premier League in the Dutchman, with Nottingham Forest previously in the picture to sign him.
Now, Sunderland want him but face competition from Fiorentina.
Black Cats have enquired about deal
Florence-based outlet Firenze e Ditorni report that while La Viola are trying to reach an agreement for Poku, Sunderland are also in the race.
The versatile attacker is currently valued at between €20m and €25m and the situation is heating up.
La Nazione – via La Viola, also have information, making it clear that Fabio Paratici’s club have offered two options to Leverkusen for a deal.
The first is an initial loan with an obligation to buy which will be triggered at the start of next season. The second one is a permanent signing this summer but for a lower fee than his current market value.
Sunderland have also enquired, having expressed a willingness to seal the deal. They are the only English club in the race but still have work to do.
Our take: Could be a handy signing
Poku has now proved himself in two different leagues and has also done well for the Dutch U21s side. That is clearly a sign that the player’s career is going in the right direction.
He would add quality squad depth to Sunderland, and also played in the Champions League last season.
Financially, the Black Cats would have an advantage too. Fiorentina have spent significantly in the market and would be running out of budget to sign Poku.
