Sunderland face a busy end to the summer transfer window with Dodi Lukebakio emerging as a potential target

Dodi Lukebakio of Benfica has been linked with a move to Sunderland(Image: Maciej Rogowski/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)

Sunderland are reportedly plotting a move for Benfica star Dodi Lukebakio, as uncertainty around the future of Lyon forward Malick Fofana continues. The Black Cats have until 11pm on Tuesday to complete their transfer business as the deadline fast approaches.

Fofana has emerged as a target for Sunderland in recent days, with Regis Le Bris’ side seemingly fending off competition from Premier League champions Arsenal for the 21-year-old’s signature.

There have now been reports that Crystal Palace have also joined the race to try and sign Fofana this summer, with Sunderland in the midst of another battle to bring the winger to the Stadium of Light.

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Sunderland have agreed a deal to sign Fofana from Lyon for a package believed to be worth around £30million, and now Palace are thought to have agreed similar terms for the winger.

Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie, says Fofana had already travelled to Lyon airport and had two private jets waiting for his decision, Sunderland or Palace?

Recent reports claim Fofana has now chosen Sunderland over a move to Selhurst Park, though sources at the club have stressed caution.

Downie adds that Sunderland are looking to sign Lukebakio, and there have been suggestions elsewhere that this would be a permanent deal.

Malick Fofana of Lyon(Image: MB Media/Getty Images)

Portuguese newspapers O Jogo and Record say that Lukebakio has emerged as another target for Sunderland as they look to add attacking reinforcements to their squad.

Chronicle Live understands Sunderland has been in the market for a versatile forward this summer, as well as looking for a new left winger, with Lukebakio ticking that box.

It now remains to be seen if the Black Cats will be able to bring both Fofana and Lukebakio to the club, or just one of the duo.

Lukebakio only signed for Benfica last summer from Sevilla in a deal reported to be worth around £17million, and the 28-year-old winger went on to score two goals during his debut season for the Portuguese giants.

The winger already has one goal to his name so far this term, which came in a 1-1 draw with Hearts in a Europa League qualifier earlier this month.