Sunderland face a major summer striker decision after reports that Eliezer Mayenda is wanted by Rennes in France. The latest interest in the young forward comes just over 12 months after he helped propel the Black Cats to the Premier League.
Rennes Strong Push for Mayenda
According to reports across the Channel, the French club have made a strong push to sign the forward. Foot Mercato claims the Ligue 1 side has set its sights on the 21-year-old as a new attacking target. Rennes are said to be determined to make a splash in the summer transfer window, and Mayenda is on their wanted list.
Mayenda scored Sunderland's first goal back in the Premier League but had limited opportunities last season. The latest development comes amid uncertainty over his future at the Stadium of Light, as he is understood to be looking to move to a club that offers him more playing time.
Contract Situation and Negotiating Position
Mayenda remains under contract with Sunderland until 2030, meaning the Black Cats are in a strong negotiating position and are under no pressure to allow him to leave cheaply. The striker joined Sunderland from Sochaux in 2023 and played a key role in the club's promotion campaign, scoring the equaliser in the Championship play-off final against Sheffield United at Wembley.
Any Sunderland decision will be shaped by valuation, squad planning, and the club's own attacking options heading into the new season. Mayenda's age, contract length, and potential mean the Black Cats retain significant control, while regular football appears to be the priority for the player—something Sunderland have not been able to offer him.
Brobbey's Form and Impact
Mayenda is behind Brian Brobbey in the pecking order, with the Dutchman having excelled in his first season at Sunderland following a slow start. Brobbey ended with seven goals and is now starring at the World Cup. He scored twice in a 5-1 win over Sweden and after the game, paid tribute to the development and coaching he has received at Sunderland's Academy of Light.
Brobbey said: “I was full of confidence going into this match. How exactly is that possible? I don’t know. Maybe a new club, new people. I have developed very well there. I just try to show it.”
Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman also made an interesting point about Brobbey’s development, suggesting fitness has been the major difference between the striker’s final period at Ajax and his current form. “At Ajax, Brobbey wasn’t fit, but he just played,” Koeman said.
