What happened: Stade Rennais are closing in on a deal with Sunderland for 21-year-old forward Eliezer Mayenda, per Foot Mercato. The move is reported to be worth around €25m including bonuses, with the sides said to be nearing final terms.
Why it matters: For Sunderland, freshly returned to the Premier League, the sale would bank a substantial fee on a player who was central to their promotion push but featured more sparingly once back in the top flight. For Mayenda, a switch to Ligue 1 offers the regular first-team platform he seeks despite a contract that runs to 2030.
By the numbers: Mayenda was decisive 41 times across all competitions in 2024-25, contributing 10 goals and five assists during Sunderland's promotion campaign. In 2025-26 he made 20 Premier League appearances, eight as a starter, scoring twice. The Spain Under-21 international has nine caps and two goals at that level.
What to watch: Watch for confirmation of final terms and a medical, plus how Sunderland reinvest the fee ahead of their Premier League return.