If a recent update from ESPN Brazil’s Bruno Andrade (as cited by Mundo Bola Flamengo) is believed to be true, Sunderland are keeping close tabs on Andre Luiz, the emerging Rio Ave winger, ahead of a potential winter swoop. The Premier League newcomers had a busy summer with 14 new arrivals, and the spending spree is expected to continue as they look to retain their top-flight status and build for the future.
The 23-year-old Selecao attacker progressed through the academy ranks of Madureira, America-RJ and Flamengo before breaking into Rubro-Negro’s senior squad. He was loaned out to Estrela da Amadora in Portugal for regular gametime ahead of the 2023-24 season, and helped the newly-promoted Portuguese side maintain their Primeira Liga status. They made his move permanent last summer, but sanctioned a €2.2m transfer to league rivals Rio Ave in January.
What He Would Offer At The Stadium Of Light
Luiz has impressed for Vilacondenses so far this season with 3 goals and 4 assists in 8 league outings as a right-winger. He is also effective from the left for his flair or as a centre-forward due to his pace and power; however, the current role suits his game, as he prefers to cut inside and operate as an inverted wideman using his stronger left foot.
Regis Le Bris is blessed to have ample attacking options on the flanks. Chemsdine Talbi and Bertrand Traore have been primarily involved from the left, and Simon Adingra, the other summer recruit, has been deployed down the left, along with versatile Enzo Le Fée, whose loan deal was converted into a permanent transfer following the Black Cats’ Premier League promotion. Moreover, they brought in Brian Brobbey to challenge and cover Eliezer Mayenda and Wilson Isidor soon after Chelsea decided to recall Marc Guiu from his loan.
How Luiz Would Fit In The Sunderland Attack
Sunderland also have Romaine Mundle, another exciting young prospect, who is sidelined with a thigh injury. Patrick Roberts, surplus to requirements at the Stadium of Light, has been loaned out to Birmingham City, and Luiz, therefore, must hit the ground running instantly to stake a claim in Le Bris’ immediate plans.
Having said that, the Brazilian should grab a starting status in the near future, with Bertrand viewed as a short-term solution rather than a long-term investment. There is no way back for Roberts unless they go down, and Talbi, though impressive, still needs to develop his decision-making and finishing. Being right-footed, the Moroccan would be a better fit on the other flank, thus making way for Luiz high up the pitch.
