Sunderland Sign Lutsharel Geertruida on Loan from RB Leipzig

Sunderland have signed Lutsharel Geertruida from RB Leipzig on loan. The deal includes a medical and an option to buy him for €23 million, which aligns with reports that RB Leipzig want about €20 million for Geertruida.

WHAT HAPPENED

Sunderland have taken Geertruida on loan for the season for a fee of €2.5 million, with the option to make the move permanent for €23 million. The 25-year-old centre-back is fit but has not played for Leipzig this season after making 35 appearances last term. Last summer, Geertruida joined RB Leipzig from Feyenoord for €20 million.

The former Feyenoord star was set to join Marseille, while Nottingham Forest were also interested. However, Sunderland swooped in to bring him in as a priority signing after ending their interest in Club Brugge’s Joel Ordonez.

WHY GEERTRUIDA JOINS NOW

Sunderland have already strengthened their team with several signings following their promotion to the Premier League, focusing on experience from the German league, where Geertruida played regularly for Leipzig last season, but he struggled to claim a consistent starting spot under new management. Sunderland’s strategy aligns with their aim to enhance their squad after securing promotion to the Premier League via the Championship play-offs.

Geertruida is eager to get playing again, seeking more first-team action. Sunderland, currently 6th in the Premier League, are looking for versatility and international experience ahead of a busy schedule.

WHAT NEXT FOR SUNDERLAND AND GEERTRUIDA

Sunderland have centred their defensive plans around Geertruida, who was clinical last season, and plan to slot him straight into the squad for the Premier League clash against Crystal Palace, who are one point behind them. Geertruida can get a chance to prove his credentials during this pivotal point in the season.

In the long term, if his performances are strong, Sunderland will not mind picking up a €23 million cheeky bargain next summer.