Sunderland could now miss out on one of their targets from the Premier League.
Sunderland have been linked with a host of players over the last month, though don’t look to be any closer to making any signings as they still await a manager appointment.
The transfer window is set to open next week and will likely see the Black Cats miss out on a number of their targets early doors if they act too slowly.
One player who they have reportedly been leading the race for is Divin Mubama, who currently plays for West Ham.
The striker made his debut for the senior team in the Europa Conference League in 2022, before scoring his first goal in the same competition four months later.
Mubama has racked up 13 appearances for the Irons, while he previously netted 13 goals in 20 appearances in Premier League 2.
West Ham are said to be eager on keeping hold of him, with his contract set to expire this month.
However, it had previously been reported that he had turned down the offer and could look to leave the English capital this summer.
West Ham working hard to keep hold of Divin Mubama
While Sunderland were favourites to snap him up, the club have now confirmed that they remain‘in talks’ with Mubama over a new contract.
West Ham will likely try to agree a deal with the 19-year-old until the very end of his contract, at which point Sunderland could bring him to Wearside. However, there is still the possibility of him changing his mind.
Where would the striker be better off?
Michail Antonio and Danny Ings are both in their 30s now and will only be on the decline, which could give Mubama a fresh opportunity.
However, it would be surprising if new manager Julen Lopetegui wasn’t to bring in his own forward.
If Mubama wants regular football then a move north could be really beneficial, though he would surely have to settle for a place on the bench at the Stadium of Light.
The club’s issue for the past year has been their lack of experience and goals up top, and while Mubama is highly-rated, he definitely can’t be relied on to lead the line all season.