Inter Milan, Everton, Brighton and Hove Albion, and Wolfsburg are all vying for the signature of AZ Alkmaar wingback Yukinari Sugawara. Sky Sports Deutschland reporter Florian Plettenberg revealed the news, listing the quartet of clubs as eager suitors eyeing a summer move for the 23-year-old Japanese international. Sugawara has been showcasing exceptional form for AZ throughout this season.
Operating predominantly from the right flank, Sugawara has notched up four goals and provided eight assists in forty appearances across various competitions for AZ. Renowned for his pace and well-suited for an attacking full-back role, he also possesses the attributes required to excel as a wingback in systems employing a back three.
???????? News Yukinari Sugawara | The 23 y/o right-back is one to watch in the next months as he could leave Alkmaar in summer!
➡️ Contract valid until 2025. Transfer in summer very likely
➡️ Price valuation: around €6m.
Many teams have inquired. Understand that he’s on the… pic.twitter.com/31FMg7iTS2
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) May 12, 2024
Given his impressive performances, there is a growing belief that AZ will face significant challenges in retaining Sugawara’s services. According to Plettenberg, four clubs stand out as frontrunners in the race for Sugawara’s signature. Notably, two Premier League sides, Everton and Brighton, have set their sights on the Japanese international as a prime target. Additionally, Wolfsburg has expressed a keen interest in luring Sugawara to the Bundesliga.
Furthermore, Plettenberg indicates that Inter are also monitoring Sugawara closely. However, any potential move to the Nerazzurri could hinge on the departure of Denzel Dumfries.
Dumfries’ future with Inter is currently uncertain, with his contract set to expire at the end of June next year. Should the Dutchman opt against extending his deal, Inter would look to offload him, potentially paving the way for Sugawara’s arrival as a prospective replacement.
