In a recent report , Bild stated that Sunderland are showing interest in Bayer 04 Leverkusen wide player Ernest Poku . It has been mentioned that the Black Cats would have to pay €25m to get a deal done for the Dutch talent this off-season.
Poku managed to shine at times for Leverkusen in the previous campaign when he produced a series of productive displays for them on the right flank. The 22-year-old found the back of the net six times and earned ten assists in 49 appearances for the German club last season in all competitions.
The Dutch sensation is currently among the most gifted wingers in the Bundesliga. Hence, Sunderland would do well to bring him on board in this transfer window.
His current contract at the German club will expire in the summer of 2030, so the Black Cats have no choice but to meet Leverkusen's demands if they want to bring Poku to the Stadium of Light later this year.
LEVERKUSEN, GERMANY – MARCH 11: Ernest Poku of Bayer 04 Leverkusen runs with the ball during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 First Leg match between Bayer 04 Leverkusen and Arsenal FC at BayArena on March 11, 2026 in Leverkusen, Germany. (Photo by Pau Barrena/Getty Images)
Poku is a good dribbler with the ball at his feet and can make a few driving runs with it in the final third. He has got the eye to play some decisive passes in and around the opponent's penalty area and can shoot the ball with venom from long range.
The Dutch talent is primarily a right-sided wide player but can also function as a left winger or play as a striker down the middle if asked to do so. Poku has done well to prove his worth as a reliable performer in the Bundesliga. However, there are some concerns over whether he will be able to cope with the physical demands and high intensity of the Premier League if the Black Cats end up recruiting him this summer.
Poku would add more goals and creativity to Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris' frontline. He has what it takes to fight for a regular first-team spot at the Stadium of Light next season.
At 22, Poku has got the ceiling to be a world-class player in his position someday. Hence, Sunderland would be wise to snap him up in this transfer period.
