Sunderland have made an approach for Levante forward Karl Etta Eyong as they attempt to strengthen their attacking options and move ahead of competing interest in the Cameroon international.
The English club are keen to progress the deal, with the proposed move understood to appeal to the player. However, negotiations between Sunderland and Levante have yet to reach an agreement, with the Spanish side holding firm over the value of their highly regarded forward.
Personal terms are not currently considered the main obstacle. If Etta Eyong remains convinced by Sunderland’s project and an agreement can be reached over his contract, the decisive issue will be whether the two clubs can settle on a transfer fee.
Levante are insisting on a substantial price for Etta Eyong, leaving Sunderland to determine how far they are prepared to go to secure his signature. According to SunSport, the financial side of the proposed transfer remains complicated.
The 23-year-old’s release clause is set at £26m. That figure represents a significant commitment for Sunderland and means the club will have to make a sizeable offer if they are to persuade Levante to sell without the clause being activated.
Sunderland’s interest reflects their desire to add more attacking strength, while Levante’s position makes clear that they do not intend to part with Etta Eyong cheaply. The Spanish club’s valuation has therefore become the central point in discussions.
Sunderland are now faced with the task of finding a figure that can satisfy Levante while remaining acceptable to the English club. Until that happens, the negotiations are expected to remain difficult, despite the player being attracted by the opportunity presented to him.
The situation leaves the proposed transfer at an early but active stage. Sunderland have taken steps to try to bring Etta Eyong to England, yet the gap between their offer and Levante’s expectations still needs to be resolved.
A deal will depend on whether Sunderland can meet the financial demands attached to the forward. With the release clause set at £26m, Levante have a clear reference point in negotiations, while Sunderland must decide whether the Cameroon international is worth the required investment.
For now, the player’s interest in Sunderland’s plans offers encouragement to the English club, but it has not removed the main barrier. The two sides remain apart over the financial terms, and Levante continue to hold out for the value they have placed on Etta Eyong.