Exclusive: Sunderland, Brentford and Burnley in three-way battle to sign Sambou Soumano
Brentford, Sunderland and Burnley are plotting moves for Senegalese striker Sambou Soumano, sources have told Football Insider.
Soumano has earned himself a reputation as one of the most exciting strikers in Europe following his impressive form at Lorient last season.
The 24-year-old scored 14 goals in just 11 starts to spearhead Lorient’s successful promotion to Ligue 1.
Soumano’s clinical finishing and relentless work-rate has brought him onto the radar of Brentford and Premier League new boys Sunderland and Burnley as they look to strengthen their attacking options ahead of next season.
Lorient are aware of the growing interest in Soumano and they face a battle to keep hold of him as he is entering the final year of his contract.
Soumano attracts Premier League interest
Soumano’s impressive displays have also caught the eye of Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw, with the forward set to be called up to the national team for the next set of fixtures.
Thiaw believes Soumano is as good as current first-choice striker for the Lions of Teranga, Nicolas Jackson.
Both Sunderland and Burnley are bidding to become the first promoted side in three years to avoid immediate relegation from the Premier League, and they will need firepower up front to achieve their aims.
As for Brentford, they are set expected to lose Bryan Mbeumo to Manchester United, so new manager Keith Andrews will be eager to reinforce his attacking ranks.
Leeds United prepare bid for Himad Abdelli
Meanwhile, Football Insider exclusively revealed that the third promoted side, Leeds, are preparing to make an offer of around £12million for Angers captain Himad Abdelli.
The Elland Road outfit have identified Algeria international Abdelli as a top target as they look to bolster their attacking midfield options.
The 25-year-old scored six goals and provided one assist in 32 appearances in Ligue 1 last season, helping them finish 14th in the French top tier.
Abdelli ranks among the very best playmakers in Europe, with the most progressive ball carries in the top seven leagues – level with Liverpool’s record new signing Florian Wirtz with 112 and more than Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers.
Daniel Farke’s side have already wrapped up deals for Lukas Nmecha and Jaka Bijol in the summer transfer window so far.
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