Kirchhoff could be a great bit of business, but the German giant has a risky history with injuries. One slight knock and Sunderland would be back to square one with John O'Shea, Seb Coates and Wes Brown, while Younes Kaboul remains injured. Lamine Kone's move to Sunderland looked set to be finalised, but the deal stalled and a saga was born. The Ivorian centre back's team, Lorient, complained that Sunderland had altered the deal, though other reports claim that wasn't the case. It seemed as if the deal was dead, but now reports claim that it may yet go through in January. It would be a huge boost for Sunderland to pick up a defender capable of dislodging the old-guard from their cosy positions.
What Culture contributor. NCTJ accredited Sports Journalist. Regret-filled Sunderland AFC season ticket holder. Optimism-filled NFL fan. Lover of all things Game Of Thrones, Breaking Bad, Walking Dead & more.
