Sunderland Receives Major Update on 24-Year-Old Midfield Star as £19m Roma Player Pulls Out of Wearside Deal

Sunderland may be on the verge of pulling off a remarkable transfer coup as they pursue Roma midfielder Enzo Le Fée. The Frenchman, who left Rennes for the Serie A giants in a £19 million move just a few months ago, is now being linked with a shock loan switch to Wearside. Sunderland manager Régis Le Bris is keen to reunite with Le Fée, having previously worked with him during their time at Lorient in Ligue 1.

Le Fée’s career has taken some intriguing turns. After leaving Lorient for Rennes in 2023, he moved on to Roma in 2024. However, his time in Italy has been underwhelming, with the 24-year-old making just six Serie A appearances under Claudio Ranieri. Now, Sunderland could offer him the chance to reignite his form while bolstering their Championship promotion push.

The Black Cats are flying high under Le Bris, with recent victories over Portsmouth (1-0) and Sheffield United (2-1) putting them within three points of league leaders Leeds United. Adding a player of Le Fée’s calibre to their squad could prove pivotal as Sunderland aim to secure a return to the Premier League.

Le Fée initially seemed an unlikely target for Sunderland, especially given reports of his rejection of an approach from the club. However, the midfielder’s decision to pull out of a potential move to Real Betis has breathed new life into the Black Cats’ pursuit. Now, reports from Italian outlet Calcio Mercato suggest that negotiations between Le Bris and Le Fée have been positive, with the deal reportedly in its final stages.

“The deal is getting closer to being closed,” the report claims, adding that Sunderland are “aiming to close the deal quickly.” It is believed the move will be structured as an initial loan from Roma.

Le Fée’s potential arrival would mark a reunion with Le Bris, who was instrumental in his development at Lorient. The midfielder joined the French club’s academy in 2008 and rose through the ranks to become a key player. Under Le Bris, first as Lorient B manager and later as first-team boss, Le Fée made 142 appearances, scoring eight goals and providing 15 assists. Their close working relationship could prove pivotal in helping Le Fée rediscover his best form.

For Sunderland, signing Le Fée represents a statement of intent. For Le Fée, the move offers a chance to rebuild his career after a frustrating stint in Rome. Should the deal be finalised, it could be a defining moment in both the player’s and the club’s seasons.