Sunderland AFC transfer latest: Jobe Bellingham, Pierre Ekwah update, Amad Diallo plan | OneFootball

The January transfer window comes around at a good time for Sunderland, who may opt to tinker with their squad, in order to bolster their play-off chances come the end of the season.

It's been a mixed season for the Black Cats so far, but only three points off the play-off spots and a new boss in charge, the Black Cats have the chance to really push on, if they get the January transfer window right.

Given the recent re-shuffle in the management team, new boss may opt to make some changes to the side he's inherited.

But given the recent transfer rumours circulating, the new Sunderland boss may also have a task on his hands trying to keep some of his star names.

That being said, we take a look at the latest transfer news and stories regarding Sunderland...

Jobe Bellingham wanted by European powerhouses

The Bellingham family name is one of the most talked about in football right now, whether it's Jobe or Jude, the brothers are always under close coverage by the media.

There have been strong rumours circulating over the last week, originally from Sport, that Sunderland star Jobe Bellingham is being monitored by Spanish giants Real Madrid, a move that would see him reunite with his brother Jude, who has been on fire at the Bernabeu since his move in the summer.

Whilst it may be in Jobe's best interests to stay at the Stadium of Light and further develop his career, at least until the end of the season, a move to Real Madrid would be almost impossible to turn down if it were to materialise.

However, if Jobe wanted to take a different route to his brother, it has also recently been reported, by TEAMtalk, that Chelsea are interested in a deal for the 18-year-old.

The Blues have been particularly trigger-happy with their signings since the takeover of Todd Boehly in May 2022 so it would come as no surprise to see them come in for the youngster at the next opportunity.

The 21-year-old has impressed during his time so far with Sunderland, and according to reports from TEAMtalk, his performances are attracting interest from Premier League clubs.

Signed from West Ham's academy in January, Ekwah has since been a mainstay in the Sunderland midfield, and the Black Cats could make a hefty profit if they were to move the French midfielder on in January.

Amid interest from Fulham, Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest, Ekwah's situation will be one to keep an eye on in the coming weeks, and the club won't be too keen on losing his services, despite the money they could bring in for him.

Sunderland fans would be over the moon if the club were able to bring United talent Amad Diallo back to the Stadium of Light in January, and it would be a real boost to their play-off chances at the same time.

The 21-year-old played a starring role as the Black Cats reached the play-off semi-final last season, and his contribution included 39 appearances and 14 goals for the club.

Whilst it would be a dream for supporters if he returned, recent reports from TEAMtalk have suggested that Diallo is looking to earn his place in the Manchester United first-team, once he returns from injury in the next few weeks.

A loan may still be an option if the forward fails to impress under Ten Hag, and the club would be willing to send him back on-loan to the Championship, but for the time being, it looks as though he'll be staying at Old Trafford.