Sunderland might have won two of their last five games in the Championship but they are still placed rock-bottom in the league table, with 22 points to their name after 26 games. In order to ensure their survival in the English second division beyond the ongoing campaign, the Black Cats have to pull off a string of sensational performances and thus, it goes without saying that it would important for them to make use of the January transfer window to beef up their arsenal.
As per one of the latest reports by the Hull Daily Mail, they are perceived to be in pursuit of Birmingham City’s defensive midfielder, Maikel Kieftenbeld. Kieftenbeld has been an instrumental player for the Blues this season under the tutelage of Steve Cotterill, having played 18 times in the Championship this season and has piled 2.5 tackles, 1.5 interceptions, 1 clearance and 0.2 blocks per game on an average, apart from bagging 1 assist.
Kieftenbeld’s current contract with St. Andrew’s based club expires this summer and considering his long-term future in the club hangs on the balance, and that should allow Sunderland to pounce on the opportunity. The 27-year-old emerged through the youth ranks of Twente and Go Ahead Eagles, and was promoted to the senior side of the latter. He has also plied his trade with Groningen for a lot of time and thus, he is someone who has truckloads of experience under his belt.
Chris Coleman’s side might have the requisite number of personnel in his books but the quality that is needed is certainly missing. The central defensive midfield would undoubtedly be one of the key areas of concern for him and no wonder why he has put Kieftenbeld on his radar. Sunderland do not have much money to spend and thus, they have to use their money judiciously and make sure that they act in a very shrewd manner to meet their needs for the second half of the season.
Kieftenbeld almost signed for Derby County in the summer, but the deal couldn’t materialize. Sunderland should leave no stone unturned to lure him to the Stadium of Light, for he would be a smart signing, for he is well familiar with English Championship and is a reliable player. He shields the backline well and knits his side well with his passes and ability to read the game in a smart fashion.
Statistics Credits: WhoScored
