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Sunderland now want to sign £2m star who “surprised” Klopp ahead of Leeds
Sunderland Eye Defender Who Once Caught Klopp’s Attention Amid Leeds Competition
Sunderland and manager Régis Le Bris are reportedly preparing a move to sign a new defender—Japhet Tanganga—who once drew praise from Liverpool boss Jürgen Klopp. The Black Cats face competition from Leeds United for the Millwall centre-back.
Momentum Builds After Le Fee Signing
Fresh off their dramatic Championship play-off final victory over Sheffield United, Sunderland are wasting no time in preparing for life back in the Premier League. The club has already secured a major boost by turning Enzo Le Fee’s loan deal into a permanent four-year contract.
Speaking after signing, Le Fee expressed his excitement:
“Before the Play-Off Final, I said my heart was in Sunderland—I wanted to stay, and that made it the most important match of my life. From day one, I’ve loved the football, my team-mates, and the fans. We shared something special, and now we move forward. Bigger challenges lie ahead, but we’ll face them together. I can’t wait to play in the Premier League.”
More Signings on the Horizon
Sunderland aren’t stopping with Le Fee. According to Sky Sports’ Keith Downie, the club could even break its transfer record again this summer. Le Bris and his recruitment team are expected to seek value signings, including potential pickups from the Championship as they bolster the squad for top-flight football.
Tanganga Targeted by Sunderland, Leeds, and Burnley
One of the players Sunderland are reportedly pursuing is Millwall centre-back Japhet Tanganga, per GiveMeSport. Burnley and Leeds United are also said to be interested. Tanganga, who joined Millwall permanently in 2024 after a successful loan spell, has a release clause just under £2 million—far less than the £12 million Millwall once valued him at.
The 26-year-old brings Premier League experience from his time at Tottenham Hotspur, where he made 27 appearances. He gained early praise from then-manager José Mourinho for his standout performance against Liverpool in 2020:
“Can we say Tanganga is a new player? He’d never played a Premier League match before today, and he proved he can do it. It’s a pity he’s not a striker or midfielder, but now we know we have another reliable option. I think Mane and Salah definitely know who Tanganga is.”
Jürgen Klopp also acknowledged the defender’s surprise impact:
“I didn’t know about him before. I was obviously surprised when he played. He was good—definitely impressive.”
With his experience and price tag, Tanganga could represent a smart, affordable addition as Sunderland reshape their squad for the Premier League challenge ahead.
