Premier League strugglers Sunderland are thought to keen on signing left-back and former Germany U21s international Diego Contento on loan from Ligue 1 side Girondins de Bordeaux.
The Black Cats are set to lose the one and only natural left-back from their ranks this month, after it was reported that they have agreed to sell Dutch international Patrick van Aanholt to Crystal Palace for a fee thought to be in the region of £12m.
With talks on that transfer under way, Sunderland boss David Moyes is already looking at ways to fill the void Van Aanholt is about to leave behind. In that regard, the former Everton manager has shortlisted Diego Contento as a possible short-term replacement.
According to Sky Sports, Sunderland have already made an approach for Contento, and they are confident Bordeaux will approve of the loan deal.
Sunderland’s confidence stems from Bordeaux boss Jocelyn Gourvennec’s apparent uncertainty over Contento’s capabilities. Indeed, while Contento has the most appearances of all the club’s left-backs this season with 14 matches in his belt so far, he has been benched or at times excluded from the squad entirely in 11 matches this season, despite Contento being fit to play.
Of course, nothing is set in stone at the moment. Regardless, Contento will be a great signing for Sunderland, and here are three reasons why.
Sunderland need a player with experience to settle the squad
At the moment, Sunderland’s roster is filled with players who, while certainly possessing talent and potential, don’t necessarily have a lengthy experience in dealing with the pressures of playing in a top league: Didier Ndong, Javier Manquillo, and Paddy McNair, just to name a few. Contento, being a three-time domestic double winner with Bayern Munich, can add a certain level of composure in levelheadedness in the squad.
Contento can provide chances from deep
Sunderland’s league goal tally this season speaks for itself: After 22 games, they’ve only managed to score 20 goals – the lowest of any Premier League side so far. And while a good look on the team’s strikers is certainly in order, there should also be an assessment on how the team creates chances. With Sunderland forced to play from their half, it is but natural to play long balls and crosses from deep. When it comes to the latter, Contento is certainly a capable player – and his presence will be a welcome addition to Moyes’ side.
Sunderland simply don’t have a choice
Regardless of whether Van Aanholt leaves the club this month or not, Sunderland still need a backup left-back. Van Aanholt can only keep up for so long in his position every match. Rotation is key to keep players fit and playing their best. Contento’s arrival at the Stadium of Light can be a solution to that problem.