Sunderland reopen Kevin Danso talks after Spurs reject loan
Sunderland have reopened talks with Tottenham over a permanent move for Kevin Danso after Spurs rejected a season-long loan bid. The Austria international has agreed personal terms with the Black Cats, BBC Sport reported, but club-to-club negotiations over a fee are still progressing with no deal yet agreed.
According to BBC Sport, Sunderland first had a loan offer turned down on Friday night before returning to the table to discuss a permanent transfer. talkSPORT also understands discussions are active, with Danso eager to leave north London after falling down Tottenham's centre-back pecking order following a major summer rebuild.
Key Takeaways
- Sunderland reopened permanent transfer talks after Spurs rejected a loan offer for Kevin Danso.
- Danso has agreed personal terms; fee negotiations between the clubs remain unresolved.
- Roberto De Zerbi confirmed Danso asked to leave alongside Richarlison and Pape Matar Sarr.
- Tottenham may require a replacement with Premier League experience before sanctioning an exit.
- Sunderland are also targeting winger reinforcements before Tuesday's transfer deadline.
Why did Sunderland return to talks for Kevin Danso?
The Black Cats initially proposed a season-long loan for the Austria international, but Tottenham rejected that approach, according to BBC Sport. Sunderland then reopened discussions over a permanent deal as they seek defensive depth ahead of a Europa League campaign.
Personal terms are not said to be an issue for Danso if the clubs agree a fee. BBC Sport reported that club-to-club talks are progressing, though no agreement had been reached as of Saturday.
What did Roberto De Zerbi say about Danso's future?
Speaking after Tottenham's 2-0 home defeat to Newcastle United, manager Roberto De Zerbi admitted that Danso, Richarlison and Pape Matar Sarr had all asked to leave the club. talkSPORT reported the news came a day after that admission.
Danso was not in the squad for the Newcastle match and was only a second-half substitute in the 5-1 Carabao Cup win over Charlton Athletic — a game that could prove to be his final Tottenham appearance if a move is completed.
Where does Kevin Danso stand in Tottenham's plans?
Spurs have overhauled their defence this summer. Jan Paul van Hecke arrived from Brighton in a £52million deal, Marcos Senesi joined on a free transfer from Bournemouth, and Cristian Romero left for Atletico Madrid in a £34.2m move.
With Ben Davies starting at centre-back in midweek and Kota Takai behind him, talkSPORT reported Danso is realistically fifth choice. Tottenham are likely to require a replacement with Premier League experience before sanctioning his exit, BBC Sport noted.
What happens next in the Kevin Danso transfer?
Danso joined Spurs on loan from Lens in January 2025 and helped the club reach the Europa League final, coming off the bench in the 1-0 win over Manchester United. His move became permanent that summer for £20.9m.
Sunderland are also pursuing winger targets including Lyon's Malick Fofana and have made a formal bid for Marseille's Igor Paixao, BBC Sport reported. For broader lifestyle coverage, browse our Luxury Real Estate & Dream Homes hub.