One of the fiercest rivalries in all of the world, the Tyne-Wear Derby is set for an extra battle this year. One of the most prevailing pieces from this summers Sunderland Transfer News is the upcoming battle between Sunderland and Newcastle.
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After both clubs barely survived relegation last season — fighting to avoid it up to the final week of the season — the Black Cats and Magpies will be looking for improvement this summer.
While Newcastle brought in new manager Steve McClaren, Sunderland have convinced the savior of last season, Dick Advocaat to stick around. Both men have begun their summer pursuits in search of the same man. PSV star Georginio Wijnaldum has found himself the target of both North England clubs.
Unfortunately for Newcastle, Sunderland and Dick Advocaat appear to have an early advantage. Wijnaldum and Advocaat were together during the managers time with PSV. Early indications show that a possible reunion between the two is becoming more likely by the day.
In fact, Sunderland have already tendered a bid for the Dutchman. The opening bid of £11 million will have to be beat by Newcastle if the Magpies want any chance of signing Georginio Wijnaldum.
The 24-year old scored 14 times last season for PSV, and was voted player of the year last season. The runner-up in that award, new Manchester United signing Memphis Depay. If the midfielder can find the same production in the Premier League, Sunderland could finally pull themselves back to the mid-table.
However, while Newcastle and Sunderland are the two leading clubs from England, interest in the player is not isolated to just them. West Ham, Swansea City and Southampton are all joined by clubs from Germany, France and Russia when expressing interest in signing the Dutch international.
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Should Dick Advocaat manage to sign his former player, Sunderland should manage to crawl away from the relegation threats. Threatened the last two seasons, Sunderland have been forced into a mid-season manager change in order to survive in the Premier League.
On the other side or town, Newcastle United and Steve McClaren must be kicking themselves. Georginio Wijnaldum is a big get for any club in the Premier League’s middle tier. Losing out on a game changing player to their derby rival could cost them this season.
While one man cannot make a team, should Sunderland sign Georginio Wijnaldum, don’t expect the Black Cats to be involved in a relegation battle. Dick Advocaat has already shown his ability to take a sub par team and survive. Imagine what he can do once he organizes a team of his standard.