Sunderland striker Brian Brobbey has emerged as one of the standout forwards at this summer’s World Cup after making a flying start for the Netherlands.
The 24-year-old has played a key role in helping Ronald Koeman’s side reach the knockout stages.
Brobbey announced himself in style during the Netherlands’ 5-1 victory over Sweden.
The Sunderland forward opened the scoring after just five minutes before doubling his tally in the 17th minute to put the Dutch firmly in control.
His two goals came from close range after excellent attacking moves involving Cody Gakpo and Denzel Dumfries.
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The performance earned widespread praise as the Netherlands climbed to the top of Group F.
Brobbey then carried his form into the final group game against Tunisia.
The striker scored again inside the opening seven minutes as the Dutch secured a 3-1 victory to finish as group winners — his third goal of the tournament took him among the leading scorers at the World Cup heading into the knockout rounds.
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Remarkably, Brobbey has scored with each of his first three shots at the tournament.
That clinical finishing has strengthened his growing reputation on the international stage, and his performances have also increased interest in the transfer window.
Brobbey only joined Sunderland last summer but has quickly become one of the Black Cats’ most valuable players, and several clubs have continued monitoring his progress throughout the World Cup.
According to the Manchester Evening News, Sunderland have already made their position clear over any potential transfer.
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Their report states the Black Cats want a minimum of £50 million before they would even consider selling the Netherlands international.
Brobbey remains under a long-term contract at the Stadium of Light, and his World Cup displays have only strengthened Sunderland’s negotiating position.
Interest is now building from both England and abroad.
According to Tutto Juve, there has already been contact from several clubs regarding the striker’s situation.
The Premier League clubs looking at signing Brian Brobbey this summer
Man United are among the sides credited with interest, and the Red Devils are continuing their search for attacking reinforcements.
Brobbey has previously been linked with a move to Old Trafford and his latest performances have done little to cool that speculation.
Aston Villa are also reported to be monitoring developments. Unai Emery’s side are assessing several attacking options as they prepare for another season competing on multiple fronts.
Tottenham have also been named among the clubs keeping tabs on the Sunderland forward.
Spurs remain active in the market as they continue rebuilding their squad ahead of the new campaign, and Tutto Juve report that approaches have already been made as clubs seek to establish Sunderland’s stance.
However, Regis Le Bris’ side are not willing to lower their demands, and it is believed that Sunderland are determined to retain one of their biggest stars unless their valuation is met.
His combination of pace, strength and finishing has made him one of the tournament’s breakout stars.
With the World Cup continuing, more strong displays by Brobbey could increase interest even more.
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