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🔴 Fabrizio Romano Confirms Sunderland’s Interest in Champions League Record-Breaking Goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk – Plus €22m Bid Revealed for Jhon Lucumí Ahead of Hearts Clash
Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Sunderland have taken a significant step in their search for a new goalkeeper by inquiring about Ukrainian international Dmytro Riznyk. The update came via Romano’s post on X during the club’s friendly against Hearts, as transfer speculation continues to swirl around the Black Cats.
Romano reported that Sunderland have asked about the terms of a potential deal for Riznyk, who is currently the first-choice keeper at Ukrainian giants Shakhtar Donetsk. Although no official bid has been made yet, the enquiry signals the club’s intent to reinforce their goalkeeping ranks as they prepare for life in the Premier League under new boss Régis Le Bris.
Riznyk, 26, is no stranger to the European stage. Since breaking through at Vorskla Poltava, where he notched 80 senior appearances, he has established himself as a key player at Shakhtar. He’s featured 75 times for the club, including a standout 16 appearances in European competition. His name hit headlines after a record-breaking Champions League performance against PSV Eindhoven in November 2024, when he made an astonishing 15 saves the most ever recorded in a single UCL or European Cup match.
At 6ft 3in, Riznyk offers a commanding presence between the sticks and has already earned five senior caps for Ukraine. Having only signed a five-year contract with Shakhtar 18 months ago, prising him away would likely come with a hefty price tag. However, with Sunderland keen to cover for Anthony Patterson’s recent injury and prepare for top-flight demands, Riznyk’s elite experience and proven pedigree may prove worth the investment.
In a separate transfer twist, fellow journalist Nicolò Schira reported moments before kick-off that Sunderland had submitted a formal offer for Colombian defender Jhon Lucumí. The bid is believed to be worth €22million plus bonuses around £18.6millionnwith Bologna holding out for closer to €28–30million (£24–25.7million). The 25-year-old, who has turned down a contract extension in Italy, is also being monitored by two La Liga clubs. The leak of the offer’s details just before the Hearts game added a new layer of intrigue to the evening.
Off the pitch, Sunderland fans were treated to a classy moment from former keeper Craig Gordon. In the matchday programme for his testimonial at Tynecastle, the Scotland international penned an emotional message to the travelling support. Gordon recalled iconic moments from his time on Wearside, including a debut win over Tottenham, a famous 1-0 victory over Liverpool courtesy of the “beach ball” goal, and a dominant 3-0 triumph away to Chelsea.
Closing with heartfelt thanks, Gordon wrote:
“To Sunderland, thank you for making the journey to Edinburgh today, and for taking part in this special fixture. I have many great memories of my time in the Premier League… I’m so happy you are back where you belong now and look forward to watching you this season. Ha’way the Lads!”
It was a moving tribute from a player who made 95 appearances in Sunderland colours and one that highlighted the enduring bond between club and player.
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