Sunderland has been linked with a potential loan move for Bournemouth forward Daniel Jebbison, but the Black Cats may face disappointment in their pursuit of the 21-year-old.
Regis Le Bris’ side is still actively seeking a new central striker this summer, but their efforts to strengthen the attacking lineup have been unsuccessful so far.
Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie recently suggested that Jebbison is one of several forwards Sunderland has considered, with the club believing the former Sheffield United prospect could bring ‘pace and power’ to Le Bris’ team.
However, a report from HITC has dampened hopes of Jebbison joining Sunderland before the end of the month. According to the report, Bournemouth has held talks with nearly half of the Championship regarding a potential loan for Jebbison, and Sunderland is among the clubs that have already been ruled out.
Norwich City, West Brom, Stoke City, Hull City, Derby County, and Portsmouth have all reportedly expressed interest in the forward, while Leeds United is also keen, though they prioritize finding a wide attacker following Crysencio Summerville’s departure.
Complicating matters further is Bournemouth’s own situation with their forwards. The Cherries recently sold Dominic Solanke to Tottenham Hotspur, and with Turkish forward Enes Unal sidelined by injury, Jebbison has temporarily taken a central role in manager Andoni Iraola’s plans.
Commenting on his squad, Iraola said, “It’s unfortunate because it was a great opportunity to have a full pre-season with Enes [Unal], but these things are beyond our control. He broke his toe while with Turkey and is currently unavailable. Jebbison is our main number nine right now, having participated in all the pre-season games, but we are exploring other options in training.”
While the expectation, as shared by Downie, is that Jebbison will eventually be loaned out this summer, his potential suitors may need to be patient until Bournemouth secures a replacement for Solanke. The Cherries recently had a bid for FC Porto star Evanilson rejected.
As for Sunderland, HITC’s report and Iraola’s comments suggest that the club might need to explore other options to resolve their ongoing search for a new striker.
