Godwin ObajeSunderland Eye Return Move for Charlie Cresswell as Toulouse Star Attracts Premier League Interest
Sunderland have identified Toulouse defender Charlie Cresswell as a prime target this summer as they look to bolster their squad following promotion to the Premier League, according to French outlet Jeunes Footeux.
The 22-year-old centre-back, a graduate of Leeds United’s academy, has enjoyed an impressive campaign in Ligue 1 after joining Toulouse in July 2024. Cresswell clocked over 2,800 minutes across 34 appearances in his debut season in France, quickly becoming a cornerstone of the Toulouse back line.
His form has not gone unnoticed, with Sunderland reportedly keen to bring him back to England. The Black Cats see the defender as “an ideal target” as they seek to strengthen their back four ahead of a demanding top-flight campaign under manager Régis Le Bris.
Cresswell’s performances also earned him a recall to the England U21 squad, where he has continued to impress. He found the net in a 3-1 win over Czech Republic U21s and completed the full 90 minutes in a recent goalless draw against Slovenia U21s at the ongoing UEFA U21 European Championship.
A return to English football could appeal to Cresswell, especially with the opportunity to feature regularly in the Premier League. Sunderland are believed to be ready to table an offer for the defender, but prising him away from Toulouse may not be straightforward.
The defender is contracted to the French club until 2028, and while Transfermarkt currently value him at €10 million, Jeunes Footeux report that Toulouse are unlikely to accept a bid at that figure. The Ligue 1 outfit are said to want significantly more before sanctioning a sale, meaning Sunderland would likely have to increase their bid to land their man.
Cresswell initially broke through at Leeds in 2020 and was seen as one of the club’s most promising defensive prospects. After loan spells and limited opportunities at Elland Road, he made the permanent switch to Toulouse in search of regular first-team football—and that decision has evidently paid off.
Now, with top-flight English football on offer once more, Sunderland are positioning themselves at the front of the queue for his signature.
The summer window is expected to be a busy one for the Wearside club, with defensive reinforcements seen as a top priority. Should they meet Toulouse’s valuation, Cresswell could well be the first major piece in Sunderland’s Premier League jigsaw.
The player’s meteoric rise over the last 12 months makes him one of the most sought-after young English defenders abroad, and his potential return would mark a significant statement of intent from Sunderland’s hierarchy.
With Sunderland’s interest now public and the Premier League spotlight looming, the next move rests with the player and his current club.
Godwin Obaje
