Sunderland remain hopeful of signing centre-forward Alexandre Mendy this summer but it appears as though a deal with SM Caen has hit a major bump in the road.
Mendy is a name that seemingly came from nowhere. It was initially reported by French outlet Foot Mercato that the 30-year-old striker had turned down offers from clubs such as Al-Riyadh, Sampdoria and even Egyptian giants Al-Ahly who had submitted a bid of £840,000, as the player himself was keen on a move to the Stadium of Light.
The same article published by Foot Mercato provides quotes from Mendy telling the world how he was delighted to be joining the Black Cats and would complete a medical in due course.
“When Sunderland arrived, there was no more debate. I could have gone into exile in Saudi Arabia with the idea of a golden retirement but I still have things to do in football.
“I’m really looking forward to my medical to go to England with my wife and children and to discover this stadium, these fans and this magnificent atmosphere.”
Roker Report revealed that the Guinea-Bissau international was on Wearside on Wednesday to undergo his medical with Sunderland, although Sky Sports journalist Keith Downie issued a contrarian claim to this and suggested that Mendy was not in England. Furthermore, Downie reported that, while the player is keen on a move, the two clubs still have a lot of work to do during negotiations before this deal is completed.
Now, reports in France, via Sunderland AFC News, have stated that the Black Cats have yet to submit an offer which exceeds £840,000, while Caen are holding out for around £4.2 million in order to accept a deal for the experienced striker. Hence, both parties are quite a way off agreeing on a price tag.
Meanwhile, in other news, Regis Le Bris’ side did manage to complete the signing of free agent Ian Poveda who recently left Leeds United following the expiration of his contract. West Bromwich Albion and Sheffield Wednesday were also keen on acquiring his services but Sunderland came out on top.
Writer’s View
Caen’s asking price for Mendy is far too expensive. The player is 30 and, although he has two years remaining on his current with the Ligue 2 side, there are far better options on the market right now who have experience in English football and will be available for cheaper.
Mendy is clearly an excellent goalscorer and has seemingly aged like a fine wine. In his entire professional career, the frontman has bagged 101 goals in 291 appearances, yet 60 of these have come in just the last three seasons. Nevertheless, £4.2 million is an indefensible fee to pay for a player of his quality and no deal will come to fruition unless Caen lower their asking price.
Deputy Head of Writing
