Sunderland are close to securing a deal for Chelsea forward Mason Burstow, despite interest from AC Milan, according to Sky Sports journalist Keith Downie.
The Black Cats are prioritising attacking arrivals today following the imminent departure of star striker Ross Stewart. Tony Mowbray’s side have struggled in front of goal this season, hitting the back of the net just four times in four fixtures. They drew a blank at Coventry City last weekend, whilst their top goalscorer is currently midfielder Jobe Bellingham with two strikes to his name.
It’s this form that has seen Mowbray move for the highly-rated Burstow, who started Chelsea’s 2-1 win over AFC Wimbledon in the Carabao Cup earlier this week. The 20-year-old has also been utilised as a late substitute on two occasions in the Premier League this season and featured in the Blues’ pre-season tour of the United States.
Burstow headed to Stamford Bridge from League One outfit Charlton Athletic, having made his debut in 2021. It was claimed yesterday that AC Milan had lined up the youngster should they fail in their pursuit of Porto striker Mehdi Taremi. The Serie A club have agreed a fee with the Portuguese giants, but have struggled to agree personal terms with the Iranian international.
According to Keith Downie, Sunderland are now in the process of finalising a deal with Burstow ahead of a move to the Stadium of Light, although it is unclear as to whether this will be a permanent or temporary transfer at this stage. He is under contract at Chelsea until 2025, which points to a loan offering.
Sunderland finalising a deal for Chelsea’s young forward Mason Burstow, as per reports.
The 20-year-old was also wanted by AC Milan.
Saw a bit of him in the summer over in USA, he looks a good player #SAFC 🔴⚪️ pic.twitter.com/Cn6vLgqwce— Keith Downie (@SkySports_Keith) September 1, 2023
Since joining Chelsea, the striker has scored 11 goals in 30 appearances for their under-21 side, including a strike in the EFL Cup against Oxford United last season.
Writer’s View
Sunderland are a club with an excellent reputation at nurturing young talent, as showcased by Manchester United winger Amad Diallo’s brilliant spell on Wearside last season. Burstow is a player who has bags of potential and the fact that he is being monitored by clubs participating in the Champions League shows the talent he possesses.
There will be a hope that he is the man to replace the goals lost by the outgoing Ross Stewart, but fans will be keen to see him hit the ground running after their dire start to the campaign.
