Sunderland are having an enjoyable first season back in the Premier League and not the endless battle against relegation many assumed they’d be going through. Sitting safe in eleventh position means they can already start planning for next season and consolidating themselves in the top flight.
Meanwhile, Wolves appear doomed despite an uptick in form and West Ham United join them in the relegation zone. What happens in the final months of the season will completely determine the summer transfer business at both clubs.
For example, if they find themselves in the Championship for 2026/27, then neither will have a chance of signing Santiago Giménez. Thursday’s edition of Mexican newspaper El Guardian states Sunderland, West Ham and Wolves are in a tussle to sign the AC Milan player.
Sunderland have been endlessly linked, with reports during the summer stating Giménez felt he could do better than the Black Cats. If that was true, the Mexico international is perhaps having second thoughts now.
Difficult season impacts transfer level
Santiago Gimenez of AC Milan celebrates winning the match.
Serie A AC MILAN v SSC NAPOLI at San Siro Stadium.
Santiago Giménez’s move from Feyenoord to AC Milan hasn’t been the great success many hoped for. The 24-year-old hasn’t been able to transfer his Eredivisie scoring rate to Serie A.
This season he’s managed a solitary goal and missed most of the campaign due to an ankle injury. What was initially thought to be a minor issue turned into something more serious and surgery was needed. The forward is still out of action.
That will be a concern for any interested clubs, but the downturn could also provide opportunity.
AC Milan aren’t convinced and could be looking to move on. Given the player’s situation, a loan move in the summer looks the most realistic option.
That would give Sunderland, West Ham or Wolves the chance to try before they buy. Of course, before that, the relegation battle needs to be won.
