{"remix_data":[],"remix_entry_point":"challenges","source_tags":[],"origin":"unknown","total_draw_time":0,"total_draw_actions":0,"layers_used":0,"brushes_used":0,"photos_added":0,"total_editor_actions":{},"tools_used":{},"is_sticker":false,"edited_since_last_sticker_save":false,"containsFTESticker":false}
Defender Who Nearly Joined Liverpool Now Heading to Sunderland!”
Sunderland Eye Lyon Defender Duje Caleta-Car to Strengthen Their Backline
As Sunderland prepare to face some of the Premier League’s most potent attacks, bolstering their defense is a clear priority. The club is actively linked with several defensive targets ahead of the new season, recognizing the need to stand firm against top-tier forwards.
Among the names recently mentioned in transfer rumors is Millwall’s Japhet Tanganga, a 26-year-old former Tottenham player. Tanganga reportedly has a release clause that could be affordable for Premier League clubs, but Sunderland will face competition from Crystal Palace, Leeds United, and Burnley in pursuit of the defender.
More recently, Sunderland’s interest has turned to a Ligue 1 centre-back—specifically Olympique Lyonnais’ Duje Caleta-Car.
Duje Caleta-Car on Sunderland’s Radar
According to Foot Mercato, Lyon have placed the 28-year-old Croatian defender on the transfer list, with Sunderland emerging as a potential destination. English sources confirm that the newly promoted Black Cats are closely monitoring Caleta-Car’s situation.
The report also notes that Turkish clubs are in the race for the player, though the exact teams remain unconfirmed. Media speculation points to Besiktas and Trabzonspor as possible suitors.
Caleta-Car previously came close to a Premier League move himself. While playing for Olympique de Marseille, he revealed that Liverpool had made an offer to both him and the French club. Despite the transfer nearly going through, Caleta-Car and Marseille ultimately decided to stay in Ligue 1.
Reflecting on that near-move, Caleta-Car told Sky Sports:
“Joining Liverpool and playing in one of the best leagues could’ve been a big step forward in my career.”
A former Southampton player, Caleta-Car featured in 19 Ligue 1 matches during the 2024–25 season, starting 17 of those. He also scored once and earned a spot in SofaScore’s Team of the Week twice.
As Sunderland weigh their defensive options, Caleta-Car’s experience in top European football and previous Premier League interest make him an intriguing candidate to help anchor their defense next season.
