Chelsea transfer latest: Gus Poyet wants to bring Kurt Zouma to Sunderland on loan
The 19-year-old was signed from St Etienne in January and loaned back
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sunderland manager Gus Poyet has expressed an interest in signing Chelsea’s promising young defender Kurt Zouma on loan.
The 19-year-old French Under-21 international, signed for a fee of around £12m in January, has yet to appear for his parent club but impressed when sent back on loan to former side St Etienne.
It is thought the interest from Sunderland may stem from speculation linking centre-back John O’Shea to Tottenham in a shock £3m deal.
However, the former Manchester United defender has been quick to distance himself from sources linking him with a move to London.
While it is thought that Zouma hopes to force his way into Jose Mourinho’s first team plans next season, his wishes may be hampered by another returning Chelsea loanee who has been drawing attention on an international stage.
Nigeria’s 20-year-old centre-half Kenneth Omeruo has impressed at the World Cup having started both of his side’s games at the competition. The Super Eagles are in a strong position to qualify out of the group stage with Omeruo being a standout performer for a team yet to concede a goal in Brazil.
This has led the defender, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Championship side Middlesbrough, to have been touted as an early suggestion for FIFA’s Young Player of the Tournament.
A loan move may seem just as likely for Omeruo as Zouma, however, with John Terry, Gary Cahill and Branislav Ivanovic all available at centre-back.
The Guardian also reports that Chelsea are pursuing Raphael Varane of Real Madrid who Jose Mourinho signed during his tenure at the Bernabeu. Such a move would surely further limit the young player’s chances.
This makes a loan deal for Zouma seem the most likely and with Sunderland’s Sporting Director Lee Congerton’s close links with Chelsea, the Black Cats will be confident of securing a deal.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments