Salomon Kalou Poised for Premier League Return as Sunderland Lead Race
BBC-style report – under 500 words
Salomon Kalou is on the brink of a return to the Premier League, with Sunderland emerging as frontrunners in the race to sign the Ivorian forward from Lille.
According to the Daily Express, the 29-year-old former Chelsea striker has attracted interest from several English clubs, including Liverpool, Arsenal, and Everton. However, it is the Black Cats who are reportedly closest to securing his signature, following what have been described as “positive” discussions between Sunderland and Lille.
Kalou, who joined the French club on a free transfer in 2012, is thought to be open to the move. Despite having contributed significantly during his time at Lille, his high wages have become a burden for the Ligue 1 side, who are now looking to reduce their salary bill.
Lille president Michel Seydoux is believed to be keen to extract a transfer fee for the player, who was one of the club’s key acquisitions two years ago but is no longer seen as central to coach René Girard’s plans. The forward was left out of the squad for Saturday’s Ligue 1 fixture against Lorient and will also miss Tuesday’s Champions League qualifier against FC Porto, a strong indication that his departure is imminent.
Kalou enjoyed a six-year spell at Chelsea, where he won the Premier League, FA Cup, and the UEFA Champions League before moving to France. His potential return to England has sparked excitement among Sunderland fans, who see the Ivorian as a player capable of adding experience and attacking flair to Gus Poyet’s squad.
Should the deal go through, Kalou would become Sunderland’s latest addition in a summer focused on bolstering their offensive options. His Premier League experience and proven goal-scoring ability could prove vital as the club aims for a more comfortable campaign following last season’s relegation battle.
For Kalou, a return to the English top flight offers the opportunity to re-establish himself at the highest level and stake a claim for a place in the Ivorian national team ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations in 2015.
With the transfer window closing soon, both clubs will be eager to finalise the deal in the coming days.
