NafisaSunderland Closing in on Enzo Le Fee Loan Signing as January Transfer Window Heats Up
Sunderland’s January transfer window looks poised to kick off with the exciting loan signing of Enzo Le Fee from Roma. The deal, which appears to be all but finalized, could signal a productive month of recruitment for the Black Cats, with further activity in the loan market expected.
The French midfielder is reportedly in Wearside to undergo medical tests and finalize the terms of his move. On Thursday evening, Le Fee was photographed en route to Sunderland after reports surfaced that the club had agreed to a loan arrangement. The deal includes a £20 million obligation to buy, contingent upon Sunderland securing promotion to the Premier League.
Le Fee’s arrival bolsters the club’s ambitions of securing a top-flight return. However, with the likes of Leeds United, Burnley, and Sheffield United vying for promotion, Sunderland will need to strengthen further to truly compete during the campaign’s second half.
Sporting Director Kristjaan Speakman is expected to target additional attacking options to complement the squad. Among those linked with a move to the Stadium of Light is Aston Villa prospect Louie Barry, who has recently been valued at £7 million.
Alex Neil Addresses Millwall’s Interest in Louie Barry
Millwall, now managed by former Sunderland boss Alex Neil, have emerged as contenders for Barry’s signature. The 21-year-old forward has returned to Aston Villa following a loan spell at Stockport County and is expected to depart again in January, either on loan or permanently.
However, Neil downplayed Millwall’s interest in Barry, suggesting that no immediate transfer moves are in progress. Speaking to the South London Press, Neil said:
“At this stage, Louie Barry is just another one of many players that has been taken back from his loan at Stockport by Aston Villa, hence the speculation with us and probably many other Championship clubs.
“Right now, we are not going to have anyone imminently walking through the building tomorrow morning. As far as all the rest goes, for me that is just speculation.”
Neil’s remarks could be a boost for Sunderland, who have been tipped as strong contenders for Barry’s signature.
Why Barry Would Be a Perfect Fit for Sunderland
Barry’s versatility—capable of operating on either flank or as a central forward—makes him an attractive option for Sunderland. Despite the returns of Romaine Mundle and Tommy Watson to the squad, Barry would add depth and quality to the Black Cats’ attacking ranks.
Similarly, Le Fee’s arrival strengthens an already talented midfield, which features the likes of Dan Neil, Chris Rigg, and Jobe Bellingham. The addition of Barry would further enhance Sunderland’s attacking options as they push for promotion.
EFL expert Ali Maxwell also endorsed the potential move, describing Barry as an “incredible fit” for Sunderland. Speaking about the 21-year-old’s future, Maxwell said:
“I think the answer is Sunderland. Barry is the closest thing to Jack Clarke that I can really think of.
“I think he would thrive playing for Sunderland. Sunderland and Louie Barry, for me, would be an incredible fit.”
Barry’s immediate future remains uncertain, with Aston Villa set to face West Ham in the FA Cup on Friday. Whether he features in that squad or not, Sunderland fans will eagerly await developments in what is shaping up to be an intriguing transfer window.
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