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EXCLUSIVE; Sunderland are ‘Leading the Race’ to Sign £21m Striker
Sunderland Take the Lead in Race for Vladyslav Vanat
Fresh off their return to the Premier League, Sunderland are wasting no time in showing intent.
According to Express Sport, the Black Cats have emerged as frontrunners in the pursuit of Dynamo Kyiv striker Vladyslav Vanat, with formal talks already taking place between the club and the player’s representatives.
It’s a bold and early move. “So far, Sunderland remain the only Premier League club engaged in concrete discussions with Vanat’s camp,” the Express reports, highlighting the club’s proactive approach.
Following their dramatic promotion via a play-off win over Sheffield United, Sunderland’s interest in Vanat appears to be part of a broader recruitment strategy.
The 23-year-old Ukrainian international has impressed with his performances in the Ukrainian Premier League, drawing interest from clubs across Europe.
A Promising Talent with Room to Grow
Vanat has already built a strong reputation in his home country, netting 27 goals in 67 appearances for Dynamo Kyiv and earning 11 caps for the Ukrainian national team, scoring twice. A product of Kyiv’s academy, he made his senior debut as a teenager and cemented his place in the first team by 2022.
Though the Ukrainian league is not held in the same regard as the Premier League, Vanat’s consistent goal-scoring record, European experience—particularly in the Europa League—and work rate make him a prospect with significant potential.
According to the Express, “personal terms are not expected to be a major hurdle if the two clubs can agree on a transfer fee.” However, that agreement is proving difficult to reach.
Negotiations Stalled Over £21 Million Price Tag
The main stumbling block is Dynamo Kyiv’s valuation of the player. Reports indicate the Ukrainian club is demanding £21 million for Vanat, despite his lack of experience outside his home country. “Dynamo are demanding as much as £21million for Vanat,” the Express confirms, with little sign of flexibility.
Kyiv are keen to keep hold of their star forward for their Champions League qualifying campaign, which begins on July 22. Replacing him would be challenging, especially under current geopolitical circumstances in Ukraine.
For Sunderland, navigating this deal is tricky. Paying the full asking price could be risky for a newly promoted side still finding its financial footing in the Premier League. But delaying too long could open the door for rival bidders.
Le Bris Enters Critical Period of Squad Building
New manager Régis Le Bris faces the challenge of constructing a top-flight-ready squad in a short time frame. While Wilson Isidor topped the club’s scoring charts last season with 13 goals in the Championship, Le Bris knows he’ll need more firepower to compete at the next level.
Vanat brings a different profile—a mobile and intelligent striker with international credentials. He could partner Isidor or eventually challenge him for a starting role.
With the Premier League season kicking off against West Ham on August 16, Sunderland will need to act swiftly to give Le Bris the tools he needs.
EPL Index View: Sunderland’s Ambition Shines Through
After years in the wilderness, Sunderland supporters have reason to believe again. Promotion to the Premier League under a forward-thinking manager has injected fresh optimism into Wearside.
The pursuit of Vladyslav Vanat is a statement of intent. At just 23, he’s already a full international and has attracted attention from top clubs around Europe. That Sunderland are leading the chase is a testament to their renewed ambition.
Admittedly, the £21 million price tag is steep for a player untested in Europe’s elite leagues. But the potential payoff—both on the pitch and in terms of future value—could justify the gamble. Vanat has the attributes to become a fan favorite at the Stadium of Light.
Prudence in the transfer market remains important. But this is the kind of move that suggests Sunderland are aiming higher—not just to stay in the Premier League, but to establish themselves there.
Whether or not Vanat signs, one thing is clear: Sunderland are no longer thinking small.
