Trai Hume has emerged as a transfer target for Leeds United, Leicester City and Burnley ahead of the January window – but Carlton Palmer has urged the defender to stay at Sunderland next month.
Hume, 21, has been excellent for Sunderland this season. The six-time Northern Ireland star has started all 19 of his side’s Championship games, with the Black Cats firmly in the race to finish in the top six.
That is despite, the sacking of Tony Mowbray. Team Talk said recently that Leeds, Leicester and Burnley are all eyeing a move to sign Hume – with the need for a right-back now beginning to emerge at Leeds.
Luke Ayling, Jamie Shackleton, Sam Byram and Stuart Dallas all see their contracts expire at the end of the season. Djed Spence is only on loan. So, a new right-back is needed. Hume has become a target.
But, ex-Leeds midfielder Palmer has discussed the situation on Football League World. He says that defender Hume should stay put at the Stadium of Light – for the good of his career, and Sunderland.
“Trai’s only going to get better. In doing so, the fee and the profit for Sunderland will increase. They should not sell with their intention to get into the playoffs and promotion the ultimate aim,” Palmer said.
“It is better to stand firm in January. They’re in a strong position. Contract expires in 2028. The longer Trai keeps playing for Sunderland and developing in the manner that he is, his fee will only increase.”
Carlton Palmer tells Leeds target Trai Hume to stay at Sunderland
Hume would be a top signing. He might not be the starting option at right-back should he sign, certainly in January – but come the summer, he could be a long-term replacement for the likes of Ayling at Leeds.
It is likely that he will cost a decent fee. Bought for £200,000, Sunderland will be hoping to make a huge profit on the Northern Ireland man, especially as he has since won caps. But one to pursue for Leeds.
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