Sunderland AFC move ahead of West Ham United FC for Oğuzhan Özyakup in a £10million deal

Sunderland have moved ahead of West Ham United in the race to sign Turkish star Oğuzhan Özyakup

Despite their poor start to the season, Sunderland have been handed renewed optimism following the appointment of Sam Allardyce as their new manager as well as due to the wonderful 3-0 victory over rivals Newcastle United in the Tyne Wear derby last weekend.

While optimism is all well and good, it is clear that Allardyce will need to strengthen the Sunderland squad in January if they are to survive in the Premier League this season and a couple of players have already started being linked with a move to the Stadium of Light in recent times.

Özyakup set for Sunderland move

Now according to reports emerging out of Turkey, it has been claimed that Sunderland are set to secure the services of Turkish international Oğuzhan Özyakup.

Özyakup has emerged as one of the finest young midfielders around in Europe with his performances for Besiktas over the last few years and it was widely reported that the 23-year old would be making a move to the Premier League by reuniting with his former manager Slaven Bilic at West Ham United.

However in a surprise turn of events, it has been revealed that Sunderland have swooped in ahead of West Ham in the race to sign Özyakup and the Black Cats are now favourites to land the midfielder in a £10million deal.

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