Sunderland are pushing ahead with their summer business. While talks continue for Marcin Bulka, the club are also targeting a big upgrade at centre-back.
According to the Sunderland Echo, the Black Cats are interested in Lyon defender Duje Caleta-Car, who is now available for around £6m. He’s been transfer-listed following Lyon’s shock relegation to Ligue 2 after a financial audit.
The Croatian international is seen as a better long-term option than Chris Mepham, who spent last season on loan at the Stadium of Light. Journalist Graeme Bailey recently reported that Mepham is more likely to drop back into the Championship than return to Sunderland permanently.
Experience in England and on the International Stage
Caleta-Car isn’t new to English football. He played for Southampton in 2022/23 and made nine Premier League starts. He averaged 2.3 defensive actions per game and won 57% of his duels that season.
He’s also a Croatia international. In recent matches against Gibraltar and Czechia, he won 7 of 9 duels and made eight clearances across both games.
“He has a big presence on the pitch,” said Ralph Hasenhüttl. — Ralph Hasenhüttl
Why Caleta-Car Makes Sense for Sunderland
At 6’4″, Caleta-Car brings physical presence, international experience, and top-flight pedigree. His numbers in Ligue 1 were strong last season — and in many areas, they beat Mepham’s Premier League stats.
| Stat | Caleta-Car (24/25) | Mepham (23/24) |
|---|---|---|
| Appearances | 19 | 10 |
| Clearances per game | 5.1 | 2.9 |
| Tackles + interceptions | 2.0 | 1.9 |
| Blocks per game | 0.2 | 0.0 |
| Ground duel success | 44% | 37% |
| Aerial duel success | 75% | 60% |
These stats suggest Caleta-Car is better in the air and more active in stopping attacks. He wins more duels, makes more clearances, and reads danger earlier.
Analyst Verdict
Chris Mepham did a solid job in patches, but Sunderland now need more. Caleta-Car offers strength, experience, and consistency. With Lyon’s financial problems, this could be a bargain deal.
If the club secure both Bulka and Caleta-Car, it would be a big step towards building a Premier League-ready defence.
Key Insights
- Sunderland in talks for OGC Nice goalkeeper Marcin Bulka
- Caleta-Car listed by Lyon after Ligue 2 drop, available for £6m
- Stats show Caleta-Car is stronger than Mepham across the board
- Played Premier League football with Southampton in 2022/23
- Croatia international with big-game pedigree
What’s Next?
Lyon are appealing their relegation, but if it stands, Caleta-Car will almost certainly leave. Sunderland are watching the situation closely and could act quickly once the ruling is confirmed.
Should Sunderland go for Caleta-Car or give Mepham another chance?
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