Sunderland are reportedly close to agreeing a permanent deal for West Ham midfielder Pierre Ekwah. The Black Cats had been exploring a potential loan move for the 21-year-old, but discussions have now been held over a long-term switch.
And Sky Sports journalist Rob Dorsett this afternoon said via social media that an undisclosed fee has been agreed between the clubs and Ekwah is on Wearside for a medical after verbally accepting a four-and-a-half year contract. As yet there has been no confirmation from either Sunderland or West Ham, but it would be no surprise if the deal is completed.
Sunderland and West Ham had talks last week over a loan move for the highly-rated Frenchman, who has been capped five times by his country at U20 level. Ekwah joined Chelsea from Nantes in 2018, before moving on to West Ham in 2021 but he has yet to make a senior appearance since moving to England.
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Sunderland are keen to bring in a defensive midfielder this month as cover for influential captain Corry Evans who has suffered a number of injury problems and who, at the age of 32, is unable to play in every game. Black Cats boss Tony Mowbray says the club is also looking to add at least one striker before the transfer window closes at the end of January, with top scorer Ross Stewart currently the club's only senior centre-forward since Ellis Simms was recalled from his loan spell at the club by Everton at the beginning of the month.
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