Sky Sports Confirms Sunderland Eye Former Leeds United Defender in Potential €10m Swoop

Sunderland Eye Former Leeds United Defender Charlie Cresswell in Potential €10m Swoop

Sunderland are reportedly weighing up a summer move for former Leeds United defender Charlie Cresswell, as the Wearside club look to bolster their defensive ranks ahead of their return to the Premier League.

The 22-year-old, currently plying his trade with Toulouse in France’s Ligue 1, is understood to be on the Black Cats’ radar once again after previously attracting interest while on loan at Millwall. According to French outlet Jeunes Footeux (via The 72), Sunderland have reignited their interest in Cresswell as part of a wider search for defensive reinforcements.

Tony Mowbray’s side has already been linked with several centre-backs in recent weeks, including Celtic’s Cameron Carter-Vickers, Lyon and Croatia international Duje Ćaleta-Car, and Millwall’s Japhet Tanganga. But Cresswell represents a slightly different profile — young, English, and with top-flight experience abroad.

Cresswell joined Toulouse in the summer of 2024 after departing Leeds United in a deal believed to be worth around €4.5m. Since making the switch to Ligue 1, the England U21 international has quickly established himself as a key figure in the heart of Toulouse’s backline. Last season, he racked up 31 league appearances, 29 of them starts, contributing three goals, one assist and helping the French side to nine clean sheets.

The defender’s performances have not gone unnoticed, with his value reportedly rising to around €10m (approximately £8.5m) according to Transfermarkt. However, Jeunes Footeux suggests any potential deal would likely require a higher fee, given the progress Cresswell has made in just 12 months in France.

Cresswell is currently representing England at the U21 European Championship, where he has impressed in his two starts — a 3-1 win over Czech Republic and a goalless draw against Slovenia. His commanding displays at the back have only fuelled speculation about a potential Premier League return.

While no formal bid has been reported at this stage, Sunderland’s interest appears serious. The Black Cats are keen to add depth and quality to their defence following promotion, and Cresswell’s age, experience, and familiarity with English football make him a logical target.

A product of Leeds United’s academy, Cresswell made his senior debut for the Whites in 2020 and was regarded as one of the club’s brightest young prospects. However, with limited opportunities at Elland Road, he spent time on loan at Millwall during the 2022-23 season before sealing a permanent move abroad.

It remains to be seen whether Toulouse are willing to part with one of their standout performers, especially after just one season. But with Premier League football on offer and Sunderland preparing an ambitious summer, the lure of a return to England could prove tempting for the young centre-half.

As the transfer window begins to heat up, Sunderland are expected to remain active in the market, particularly in defence — and Charlie Cresswell may well be at the centre of their plans.