Sunderland set sights on Swedish sensation who’s wowed Arsenal and Chelsea scouts

Sunderland’s second season back in the Premier League has delivered a far tougher opening than their first campaign.

The Black Cats finished seventh last term and earned an historic place in the Europa League, but they have collected only four points from their opening six league games.

REUTERS/Lee Smith

Régis Le Bris’ side sit 17th after one victory, one draw and four defeats, and last weekend’s defeat to Brighton extended their losing league streak to three matches.

There was a response in Europe on Thursday, as Sunderland came from behind to beat Torreense 2-1 following their opening Europa League victory over AZ Alkmaar.

That result should restore some confidence before Sunday’s trip to Bournemouth.

The Cherries are one place and one point below Sunderland, having failed to win any of their first six league matches, and victory at the Vitality Stadium would give the visitors breathing room, while defeat would drag them right into the bottom three.

Le Bris must manage tired legs after the journey to Portugal, but he will know this is the sort of game Sunderland need to handle if they are to balance Europe with another comfortable Premier League season.

Recruitment staff are also continuing to look beyond the immediate battle.

Sunderland eye Oliver Mansson as Arsenal and Chelsea take notice

REUTERS/Scott Heppell

TEAMtalk reporter Graeme Bailey says Sunderland have sent scouts to run the rule over IFK Goteborg midfielder Oliver Mansson, who is attracting interest from several English clubs.

Arsenal and Chelsea observers are said to have been particularly impressed by the teenager’s performances, with Tottenham, Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest having also taken a look, leaving Sunderland with serious competition if they decide to act.

Mansson is only 17 but has already stepped up into senior football in Sweden.

He made his competitive first team debut at the age of 16 and has since been trusted in central and defensive midfield roles.

The Sweden youth international is around six feet tall and combines that useful frame with composure on the ball.

For Sunderland, the attraction would be about the future rather than finding an instant answer to their current league problems.

Granit Xhaka remains the experienced leader in Le Bris’ midfield, while Enzo Le Fée and Noah Sadiki offer different qualities around him. Mansson could arrive as a player to develop gradually before competing for a regular senior role.

Action Images via Reuters/Lee Smith

That approach would fit Sunderland’s recent recruitment work, as the club have already shown a willingness to invest in young talent and offer a clearer route towards first team football than many traditional heavyweights.

That pathway could become their strongest argument.

Arsenal and Chelsea may possess greater financial power, but Mansson and his representatives must also consider where his development would be best served.