Sunderland face fresh competition in their pursuit of Brazilian forward Igor Paixao after Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad entered the race to sign the Olympique de Marseille player. The Championship side have opened negotiations for the 26-year-old, whose representatives were in London on Thursday for discussions regarding a potential transfer.
Paixao joined Marseille from Dutch club Feyenoord last season in a €30 million deal. Just 12 months later, the winger could depart France, though no agreement has yet been reached between Marseille and any interested party.
Saudi Interest Adds Pressure
Al-Ittihad have identified Paixao as a potential target should they fail to complete a move for Freiburg’s Ritsu Doan. The Saudi club’s involvement introduces significant financial competition, potentially complicating Sunderland’s efforts to secure the player’s signature.
The Brazilian’s camp have engaged with Sunderland, but the presence of a wealthy Middle Eastern rival alters the dynamics of any prospective deal.
Marseille’s Reluctance
Marseille manager Bruno Genesio is desperate to retain Paixao, who functions as the club’s only established senior left-winger. Losing the Brazilian would leave a significant gap in the team’s attacking options.
Despite the manager’s wishes, the club cannot completely close the door on a departure. The chances of Paixao leaving have increased as talks progress, even though Sunderland remain some distance from concluding a deal.
Recent Transfer History
The potential move marks a rapid turnaround for a player who cost Marseille €30 million last summer. His brief stay in Ligue 1 has attracted attention from multiple leagues, with English and Saudi clubs now vying for his services.
The situation remains unresolved, with negotiations continuing between the player, his representatives, and the interested clubs. Sunderland must now decide whether to intensify their pursuit or risk losing Paixao to Al-Ittihad’s growing interest.