Brian Brobbey responds as emotional Sunderland exit message penned
Brian Brobbey has reacted to Lutsharel Geertruida's latest post on social media after he left Sunderland this summer.
Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris is aiming to bolster his squad this summer in preparation for Europa League football.
Thomas Meunier has arrived from Lille as their maiden signing so far, with several first-team stars moving on.
Geertruida's future at the club has been up in the air for several months after they decided against triggering his £20million option-to-buy clause.
Sunderland were believed to be in talks with his camp over a permanent deal after his successful loan spell from RB Leipzig.
They have now officially decided against signing him this summer, though, with the player taking to social media to confirm his exit.
Lutsharel Geertruida sends heartfelt goodbye message to Sunderland fans
Geertruida made 30 appearances for the Black Cats last season and played a key part in their run to Europa League qualification while on loan from Leipzig.
The 26-year-old featured in a host of different positions under Le Bris and earned a place in the Netherlands' World Cup squad as a result of his strong form.
Le Bris insisted earlier this week that new signing Meunier has "more or less the same profile" as Geertruida in a clear hint that the club had decided against signing him permanently.
The defender took to Instagram on Thursday night to offer a goodbye message to the Black Cats fans, to which Brobbey made his thoughts clear by replying with a confused face emoji.
Sources have revealed to Football Insider that Geertruida wants to stay in the Premier League, with Everton interested in his services.
What is the latest on Brobbey's Sunderland future?
Brobbey was a key part of the Netherlands' World Cup squad after scoring seven goals in 31 Premier League appearances for Sunderland last season.
The 24-year-old's three goals in as many World Cup matches and clear potential to be a top striker have seen several top clubs linked to his services this summer.
Sources have exclusively revealed to Football Insider that Sunderland are expecting offers for Brobbey, with Man United interested in his services.
Sunderland have no plans to let him leave after just one campaign, and are instead searching for his backup after letting Eliezer Mayenda leave for Rennes.