Three short-term signings to cure Sunderland’s AFCON woes

by h79snht.top Uncategorized

The Africa Cup of Nations is a tournament that comes around every two years and causes complete havoc for the majority of Premier League clubs.

With the competition set to run from a week Saturday (January 14), Sunderland’s squad has been absolutely decimated with Didier Ndong, Lamine Kone and Wahbi Khazri having all jetted off to their home continent.

This leaves the Black Cats in a somewhat interesting position given the opening of the January transfer window, as, despite the lack of investment coming from the owners, David Moyes needs to find some short-term solutions.

Whether it be loan moves or quick-fix buys, the fact remains that Sunderland could lose significant ground in their battle to escape another relegation battle unless strides are made in the current window.

The business end of the season is fast approaching and it’s time for Sunderland to commence their annual survival act.

Here are THREE January signings that could provide cover for the departed squad members at the AFCON…

Fabian Delph

Football Soccer Britain – Manchester City v Steaua Bucharest – UEFA Champions League Qualifying Play-Off Second Leg – Etihad Stadium, Manchester, England – 24/8/16Manchester City’s Fabian Delph celebrates scoring their first goal with NolitoAction Images via Reuters / Carl RecineLivepicEDITORIAL USE ONLY.

It wouldn’t be harsh to stay Delph’s Manchester City career hasn’t gone to plan. The midfielder is unlikely to receive much game time for the rest of the season, and a loan move to Sunderland would suit all parties.

Not only would a short-term switch cost Sunderland next-to-nothing, but City would surely pay the majority of his wages and Delph could also tout himself to potential suitors ahead of the summer transfer window.

Holger Badstuber

Football Soccer – Bayern Munich Training – Allianz Arena, Munich, Germany – 11/7/16 – Bayern Munich’s Holger Badstuber and Juan Bernat attend team training. REUTERS/Michaela Rehle Picture Supplied by Action Images

Following a troublesome four years of injuries, Badstuber looks set to depart Bayern Munich this winter on a short-term deal to regain some match fitness.

Manchester City are interested in the German defender according to ESPN, but Sunderland should attempt to swoop in and offer the German guaranteed football on Wearside.

The experience and mentality Badstuber offers could be a significant factor in Sunderland avoiding the drop.

Marouane Fellaini

Soccer Football – FC Zorya Luhansk v Manchester United – UEFA Europa League Group Stage – Group A – Chornomorets Stadium, Odessa, Ukraine – 8/12/16 Manchester United substitute Marouane Fellaini before the match Action Images via Reuters / Peter Cziborra Livepic EDITORIAL USE ONLY.

Sunderland are in desperate need of some steel in their midfield and who does Moyes know better than former Everton midfielder Fellaini?

The Manchester United player is struggling with life at Old Trafford and looks set to depart the Red Devils at some point in the near future

Moyes could offer the Belgian a quick exit from Jose Mourinho’s side and provide him with a fresh challenge.