Exclusive: Sunderland Ready New Move for Leicester City's Abdul Fatawu

Sunderland are preparing a fresh bid for Leicester City's star winger Abdul Fatawu as the January 2026 transfer window heats up, despite Leicester's firm stance to retain the 21-year-old Ghanaian talent[1][3].

Fatawu, who joined Leicester permanently from Sporting CP in July 2024 on a contract until 2029, has been a standout performer this season in the Championship. The dynamic right-winger has notched 4 goals and 6 assists in 24 appearances, including a stunning long-range strike from 10 yards inside his own half against Ipswich Town, helping secure a 3-1 victory. His recent form—four assists in his last seven games—has elevated Leicester's attack, making him their most influential player[1][3].

Leicester manager Cifuentes has emphasized Fatawu's importance, stating there is "always a strategy and a plan," and describing him as a "very important player." The club previously rebuffed a £27.5 million offer from Sunderland last summer and plans to resist any winter approaches, even as Premier League sides like Everton, Bournemouth (seeking a replacement for Antoine Semenyo), and others show interest[1][2][3][4].

Fatawu's journey includes a key role in Leicester's 2023/24 Championship title win on loan, followed by a permanent €17 million move. An ACL injury sidelined him in the Premier League last season after two assists in 11 games, but he's now fully fit with a market value of €20 million per Transfermarkt. Napoli are reportedly eyeing a €25 million bid[1][2].

With 25 caps for Ghana and a potential transfer fee exceeding £30 million, Fatawu's future is hotly contested. Leicester view him as irreplaceable in the second tier, but Sunderland's promotion push could force a high-stakes decision[1][3].

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