£25m Move to Bournemouth Despite Sunderland Links
Djordje Petrović is on the verge of joining Bournemouth from Chelsea in a £25 million transfer, despite speculation in recent weeks linking the Serbian goalkeeper with a switch to newly promoted Sunderland.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed on Friday evening that the deal is now fully agreed, with personal terms settled and a medical expected in the coming days. Petrović will sign a long-term contract with the Cherries, who are putting the finishing touches on the transfer before making an official announcement.
Romano stated: “Djordje Petrović to Bournemouth, here we go! Chelsea have accepted the £25m bid after final conditions were agreed. Medical to follow shortly, as reported by @David_Ornstein. #AFCB have always been the frontrunners, and Petrović will sign a long-term deal.”
The 25-year-old Serbian international had attracted considerable interest this summer, with Sunderland among the clubs monitoring his situation. Following their promotion to the Premier League, the Black Cats are actively seeking to strengthen their goalkeeping options amid continued doubts about Anthony Patterson’s long-term future and a desire to add Premier League experience.
While Petrović was considered a possible candidate earlier this month, Bournemouth have moved swiftly to secure his services. The south coast side had been targeting a new first-choice goalkeeper following Kepa Arrizabalaga’s permanent transfer to Arsenal, and Petrović quickly became their top priority.
Chelsea have accepted the £25 million offer, and with final formalities now underway, the deal is expected to be wrapped up soon. Sunderland, meanwhile, will have to explore alternative targets as they continue their ambitious summer recruitment drive, which has already seen them land Simon Adingra, Enzo Le Fée, Habib Diarra, and Reinildo.
Rongier Not Expected to Join Sunderland Despite Initial Contact
In other transfer news, Sunderland are unlikely to pursue a deal for Marseille midfielder Valentin Rongier, despite earlier reports of interest.
According to L’Équipe, the club’s director of football, Florent Ghisolfi, had initiated contact with the Ligue 1 side over the 30-year-old’s availability. Rongier, who is entering the final year of his contract at Marseille, has refused a new deal and is widely expected to move on before the window closes.
While the French midfielder has returned to pre-season training, uncertainty continues to surround his future. Contract talks stalled back in February, and Marseille are reportedly ready to sell to avoid losing him for free next summer.
Although Sunderland explored the possibility, they are not expected to follow through with a formal approach at this stage.
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