Sunderland have completed the signing of Lutsharel Geertruida from RB Leipzig in one of the biggest surprises of the transfer window.
The Dutch international was close to joining Marseille, but a last-minute twist saw him move to the Premier League instead.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the deal is structured as an initial loan worth €2.5 million, with a purchase option set at €23m (£20m/$27m).
MARSEILLE LEFT FRUSTRATED IN FAILED PURSUIT
Marseille had reached personal terms with Geertruida and believed the deal was nearly complete.
The French club urgently needed defensive reinforcements after missing out on Joël Ordoñez from Club Brugge.
Their problems were once again exposed in a 1-0 defeat to Lyon last weekend, further highlighting manager Roberto De Zerbi’s need for stability at the back.
Instead, Sunderland stepped in and secured the 25-year-old, dealing Marseille yet another blow in the market.
GEERTRUIDA’S PROFILE AND CAREER SO FAR
Geertruida has been a regular for both RB Leipzig and the Netherlands, earning 17 international caps.
He played 39 matches for Leipzig last season, contributing a goal and an assist, though he has yet to feature in the Bundesliga or DFB Pokal this campaign.
Before moving to Leipzig from Feyenoord, Geertruida was also tracked by AC Milan and Nottingham Forest. His versatility — able to play both full-back and centre-back — makes him a valuable addition to Sunderland’s squad.
SUNDERLAND’S AMBITION IN THE TRANSFER MARKET
This signing underlines Sunderland’s intent to stay competitive in the Premier League after their promotion.
The club had previously pulled out of a move for Ordoñez but shifted focus to Geertruida as their top target.
The Black Cats have already dipped into the German market this summer, signing Granit Xhaka and Nordi Mukiele — both with Bundesliga experience.
Adding Geertruida further shows their commitment to strengthening key areas with proven talent.
What’s Next for Sunderland and Marseille?
For Sunderland, landing Geertruida is more than just a defensive signing — it’s a statement of ambition.
The 25-year-old could play a crucial role in ensuring survival and possibly pushing for a mid-table finish.
For Marseille, the search continues. Their repeated setbacks in the market put pressure on De Zerbi to find quick solutions as the Ligue 1 season unfolds.
Sunderland fans, meanwhile, can celebrate a transfer masterstroke that may define their Premier League journey this season.