Russian media outlet Fotanka has announced that Zenit will confirm the departure of Sunderland target Nicolas Lombaerts after this Sunday's Russian Super Cup. The Belgian centre back has 35 caps for his country, and has been a valuable member of his club's triumphant 2014/15 league campaign. A source close to Zenit claims that the upcoming clash with Lokomotiv Mocsow could be Lombaerts' last, marking the end of an eight year spell with the club during which he accrued 170 league appearances. Like many Sunderland targets this transfer window, Lombaerts has previously worked under Dick Advocaat. The Dutchman ed Zenit to UEFA Cup glory during his short stint in St. Petersburg, although the defender was out of action with injury problems at the time. Advocaat clearly sees something in the 30 year old centre back, who will have undoubtedly matured in the seven years since their time together. He would further bolster the Black Cats' back line after last week's capture of Sebastian Coates, providing much-needed depth to a thin, ageing area of the squad. It's good to see that Sunderland seem to be taking a sensible approach to this summer's transfer window, placing a priority upon strengthening the most immediately weak aspect of the team while simultaneously looking for attacking options.
