Sunderland interested in signing Loïc Badé despite Bayer Leverkusen talks | OneFootball

Sunderland remain interested in signing Loïc Badé (25) from Sevilla despite Bayer Leverkusen opening talks to sign the defender, according to a report from Foot Mercato. The newly promoted Premier League club are keen to bolster their central defensive options and have earmarked the 25-year-old as a potential target.

The Black Cats previously showed an interest in signing Lille centre-back Bafodé Diakité (24). However, the Frenchman looks set to join fellow Premier League club Bournemouth and has undergone a medical with the Cherries. Turning their attentions to other targets, the Sevilla defender remains another option. The La Liga club are demanding a fee of €35m for the former Rennes centre-back.

Leverkusen also interested

Sunderland are not alone in their interest in signing Badé. Bayer Leverkusen have entered into preliminary negotiations to sign the Frenchman, Foot Mercato understands. The France international is said to be interested in a move to the Bundesliga club, given the opportunity to play in the UEFA Champions League and compete for trophies.

GFFN | Liam Wraith