Sunderland have reportedly joined the race to sign a new striker, but they could face competition from a fellow Premier League side.
Both clubs secured European football last season but have endured relatively slow starts to the new Premier League campaign, collecting just four points from their first five matches. Sunderland, however, has recently received a major boost from Brian Brobbey.
The striker produced an outstanding display in his latest league appearance, scoring a hat-trick away against Manchester City. His performance earned praise from Sunderland legend Marco Gabbiadini, who believes Brobbey can rediscover his goalscoring form with greater confidence.
Gabbiadini said Brobbey has previously demonstrated that he can regularly find the net, adding that the striker may benefit from trusting his finishing ability more and producing occasional spectacular goals.
Brian Brobbey’s league record
| Season | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| 2021-22 | 21 | 8 |
| 2022-23 | 32 | 13 |
| 2023-24 | 30 | 18 |
| 2024-25 | 30 | 4 |
| 2025-26 | 31 | 7 |
| 2026-27 | 5 | 3 |
Aston Villa have also shown signs of improvement in attack. Unai Emery’s team went into the international break with a 3-2 victory over Tottenham Hotspur, ending a difficult opening period in front of goal.
Before their trip to north London, Villa had scored only once in their first four league matches. The club had been looking for more attacking options following Ollie Watkins’ departure during the summer, while Nicolas Jackson has recently contributed two goals across all competitions.
Despite the recent improvement from both Brobbey and Jackson, Sunderland and Villa are reportedly still looking to strengthen their respective attacks.
Sunderland and Aston Villa target Kevin Viveros
According to TEAMtalk, Sunderland have entered the competition for Athletico Paranaense forward Kevin Viveros.
The Brazilian club are reportedly seeking a fee between £25 million and £35 million before considering a potential sale of the 26-year-old striker.
Viveros has attracted attention from several clubs, including teams in Saudi Arabia and Russia. Aston Villa are also monitoring the Colombian forward and have reportedly made initial contact, with scouts regularly attending matches to assess his performances.
Villa would have plenty to admire if they decided to pursue the striker. Viveros has enjoyed an excellent campaign so far, scoring 19 goals in 32 appearances across all competitions while also providing four assists.
His performances have also earned strong praise from Athletico Paranaense manager Odair Hellmann.
Hellmann described Viveros as a player who has developed significantly from a technical perspective and still has plenty of room for further improvement. He also highlighted the striker’s humble personality despite the success he has already achieved in Brazilian football.
With Sunderland, Aston Villa and clubs from abroad reportedly monitoring his situation, Viveros could become one of the more sought-after attacking players in the upcoming transfer window.
