21-year-old Top target urged to ignore Leeds interest and stay put at English club

Trai Hume is attracting interest from Leeds United, Leicester City, and Burnley ahead of the January transfer window, but former Leeds midfielder Carlton Palmer is advising the 21-year-old defender to remain at Sunderland. Despite the managerial change with Tony Mowbray’s departure, Hume has been a standout performer for Sunderland in the Championship this season, starting all 19 games and helping the team vie for a top-six finish.

Leeds, Leicester, and Burnley are reportedly eyeing Hume as a potential right-back, considering the contractual situations of Luke Ayling, Jamie Shackleton, Sam Byram, and Stuart Dallas, all set to expire at the end of the season. Djed Spence, another option, is on loan, creating a need for a new right-back, with Hume emerging as a target.

However, Palmer emphasizes the benefits of Hume staying at the Stadium of Light for the sake of his career and Sunderland’s aspirations. Palmer believes that the defender, who has a contract until 2028, will continue to improve, increasing his value for the club. Despite potential interest from Leeds, Palmer suggests that Sunderland should resist selling Hume in January, as their strong position and Hume’s development could lead to a higher transfer fee in the future.

While Hume could be a valuable signing for Leeds, Palmer advises Sunderland to stand firm, emphasizing that keeping Hume and allowing him to further develop will ultimately benefit both the player and the club. Hume’s potential as a long-term replacement for Leeds’ current right-backs makes him an enticing prospect, with the likelihood of a substantial transfer fee considering Sunderland’s initial investment of £200,000 and Hume’s international achievements.