Sunderland are reportedly making significant progress in their pursuit of Marseille midfielder Geoffrey Kondogbia, with fresh reports suggesting the experienced midfielder is now close to reaching an agreement with the Black Cats.
The 33-year-old has emerged as a key target for Régis Le Bris as Sunderland prepare for an ambitious summer following qualification for the Europa League.
Interest in Kondogbia first emerged earlier this month, but developments in France now indicate negotiations have accelerated, with the potential transfer gaining momentum in recent days.
Should a deal be completed, Sunderland would add another experienced international to a squad that has already benefited from senior leadership during its rise back into European competition.
Sunderland targeting experience for Europa League challenge
Le Bris appears keen to balance youth and experience as Sunderland prepare for the demands of competing on multiple fronts next season.
The Black Cats strengthened their midfield leadership by bringing in Granit Xhaka last summer, and Kondogbia is viewed as another player capable of adding composure, physicality and tactical intelligence.
According to reports from France, Sunderland's interest is strong and discussions with the player have progressed positively.
The defensive midfielder is believed to fit the profile Le Bris wants, particularly given his experience across Europe's top leagues and international football.
Having followed Sunderland’s development under Le Bris, adding players with proven top-level experience feels like a logical next step as the club attempts to establish itself among the Premier League’s upper half while competing in Europe.
Marseille ready to sanction departure
One factor working in Sunderland’s favour is Marseille’s willingness to part ways with the midfielder.
Kondogbia is reportedly among the highest earners at the French club, and Marseille are keen to reduce their wage bill ahead of the new season.
His role within the squad also diminished considerably during the 2025/26 campaign.
The former Valencia and Atlético Madrid midfielder featured in only 17 matches across all competitions and accumulated just over 1,000 minutes of action, suggesting he is no longer considered an essential part of Marseille’s long-term plans.
That combination of financial and sporting factors has opened the door for Sunderland to move aggressively.
Key points
- Sunderland are reportedly close to agreeing terms with Geoffrey Kondogbia
- The midfielder is expected to leave Marseille this summer
- Régis Le Bris wants experienced additions for Europe
- Marseille are keen to reduce their wage bill
- Kondogbia is valued at approximately €4 million
What’s next?
Sunderland are expected to continue negotiations with Kondogbia and Marseille over the coming days as they attempt to finalise terms.
With the player reportedly open to the move and Marseille willing to facilitate an exit, attention may soon shift towards agreeing the financial details between the two clubs.
If completed, Kondogbia would become one of Sunderland’s most experienced signings of the Le Bris era and another statement of intent ahead of their Europa League campaign.
Would Geoffrey Kondogbia be the ideal experienced addition to help Sunderland compete in both the Premier League and Europa League next season?
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *