According to Sky Sports, Sunderland are now eyeing RB Leipzig’s Loïs Openda after sealing a deal for Marc Guiu. The striker is valued at around £50m.
Sunderland have placed Loïs Openda on their striker shortlist this summer — in what would be the most audacious move of their window so far — after reportedly completing a deal for Marc Guiu from Chelsea.
The Black Cats are riding a wave of momentum after a historic summer spend and are now targeting one of Europe’s most prolific forwards.
The Financial Reality: £50m Price Tag
RB Leipzig reportedly value Openda at £50m (€58.5m) — a sum that would shatter Sunderland’s previous records. But with the club already spending £130m this summer, including deals for Xhaka, Roefs, and Guiu, the ambition is unmistakable.
“Openda’s numbers are elite. He’s not just a finisher — he’s a creator, a presser, and a pure athlete. If Sunderland land him, it changes everything.” — Sky Sports Analyst
Why Openda Is a Statement Target
According to Sky Sports, Openda is one of several forwards the club are exploring, although RB Leipzig may resist any sale after already agreeing to part ways with Xavi Simons and Benjamin Šeško.
At 25, Openda is entering his prime and comes off the back of a phenomenal campaign:
| Statistic | Loïs Openda (2024/25) |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 45 |
| Goals | 13 |
| Assists | 11 |
| Expected Goals (xG) | 16.4 |
| Non-penalty xG (npxG) | 14.2 |
| Expected Assisted Goals (xAG) | 7.6 |
| Shot-Creating Actions (SCA) | 92 |
| Goal-Creating Actions (GCA) | 17 |
These numbers highlight a well-rounded forward capable of contributing across all attacking phases — not just as a finisher but also a creator.
Could Leipzig Even Sell?
That remains the key question. After offloading two key attackers already, Leipzig may block Openda’s exit unless Sunderland deliver an irresistible bid — or the Belgian forces the move.
The German club only signed Openda from Lens last summer, and his long-term contract runs until 2028.
Analyst Verdict
Sunderland's attempt to sign Openda shows how serious their new ownership structure has become. The club now boasts its most expensive squad in history — and a move for the Belgian would position them as top-half contenders, not just survival hopefuls.
Key Takeaways
- Sunderland interested in RB Leipzig striker Loïs Openda
- Player valued at £50m, would break club’s transfer record
- Already scored 24 goals in 34 games last season
- Part of a shortlist after signing Marc Guiu
- Sunderland’s summer spend hits £130m
What’s Next?
With Marc Guiu signed and more funds available, Sunderland are clearly ready to back their vision. Whether they can convince Leipzig to sell Openda is another story — but the message is clear: Sunderland are no longer thinking small.
2 Comments (last comment by JamesLove)
First read message
By JamesLove 2 Aug 2025 14:12
Stadium of Light have found oil or something.
By Adem 2 Aug 2025 14:08
How on earth?!
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