Talks are underway between Lutsharel Geertruida and Sunderland after an agreement was reached with Sunderland. The defender is seen as a priority signing for the buying side, who are now focused on finalising personal terms as they look to strengthen their squad and kick-on. The player has not yet agreed a contract, but the move is progressing rapidly behind the scenes and is expected to be completed in the coming days. Sunderland have laid out their intentions, but valuation and timing remain under debate. Marseille, Atalanta and Nottingham Forest are keeping tabs in case talks collapse or progress slows further. Sunderland's back line has been a real strength this season, conceding just 0.86 goals per game (6 in 7). Lutsharel Geertruida would be expected to slot into that unit and hold his own in an already solid setup. Leipzig continue to be linked with Harvey Elliott, Fabio Silva and Tyrique George while Sunderland are also rumoured to be tracking Josh Sargent, Nayef Aguerd and Issahaku Abdul Fatawu. Looking for Sunderland transfer rumours? Follow us on Twitter @PlayerSwitchCom for more rumours just like this.