Sunderland fans know by now that sometimes, no matter how hard you try to speed things up, patience is often the most important of virtues.
The Black Cats held talks – and missed out on- countless managers in the four-month gap between the sacking of Mick Beale and the appointment of Regis Le Bris.
Sunderland’s pursuit of a new centre-forward to aid Le Bris’ promotion hopes, meanwhile, is proving to be just as protracted.
The chances are that Ike Ugbo will end up back at Sheffield Wednesday, where he impressed on loan from January to June, rather than start a new life in the North East.
Alexandre Mendy, meanwhile, left no one in any doubt as to how he feels about his own situation over the weekend. HITC understands that Sunderland are extremely frustrated as their proposed deal for the SM Caen hitman continues to stall, despite personal terms being already agreed.
And Mendy certainly shares those frustrations, via the Sunderland Echo.
“I do not want to engage in a power struggle with the club but, today, I am very affected by this situation,” says a dejected Mendy, his departure complicated by the takeover of Caen by Kylian Mbappe’s family.
“I do not understand. I feel wronged and betrayed.”
Sunderland striker chase goes on amid Alexandre Mendy fury
Mendy had already confirmed his desire to join Sunderland over a host of other clubs. Including, but not limited to, those in the Middle East.
“My decision was made since January. And, since June, my destination is known,” adds the Ligue 2 Golden Boot winner. “I am waiting for my departure. (But) new investors have arrived, I am at their entire disposal.”
But while Mendy’s future hangs in the balance, that of another Sunderland striker target has now been decided.
HITC reported last week that the Black Cats were starting to sound out alternatives. One of those, Goduine Koyalipou, also won a Golden Boot last term.
He hit the net 17 times for Beveren, catching the eye of not only Sunderland but also Championship rivals Cardiff and an ambitious Birmingham City. A Blues side desperate to do what the Wearsiders could not and escape League One at the first attempt.
But while Caen continue to keep Mendy against his will, Beveren were certainly more open to offers for their own star striker. Offers such as the one put forward by CSKA Sofia.
Black Cats and Birmingham miss out on Goduine Koyalipou
HITC reported that the Bulgarian outfit were leading the chase for Koyalipou. A chase they have now won.
“Hello! I’m very happy to be here, in the biggest club in Bulgaria. I can’t wait to play for you,” Koyalipu said after his move to CSKA Sofia was officially confirmed on Tuesday, via Top Sport.
“You are amazing. See you soon.”
Koyalipou, as confirmed by the club’s official website, signs a three-year contract with the side who finished third in Bulgaria’s top flight last term.
The fee has been kept under wraps by both CSKA and Beveren. Local publication 7Dnisport, however, claim to have heard it lies somewhere in the region of just £1 million.
Sunderland, meanwhile, face Cardiff City on the opening weekend of the Championship season.
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