Meireles could make a shock switch to Sunderland.
Ex-Chelsea and Liverpool midfielder Raul Meireles could make a return to England as Sunderland prepare to end the 30-year-old’s nightmare at Fenerbahce, according to the Daily Mail.
Meireles spent two years playing in the Premier League between 2010 and 2012, first at Anfield and then Stamford Bridge, before an £8.8m switch to Turkey last summer.
Despite only spending 12 months with the Blues the Portugal international helped the club to Champions League and FA Cup glory, playing 48 matches in all competitions which included two goals apiece in both tournaments.
The Black Cats face a battle with Fulham to sign the Portuguese midfielder, who is unsettled at Fenerbahce.
With Meireles having enjoyed his time in England both clubs would be an attractive prospect to the former FC Porto man, who has earned 66 caps for Portugal and scored eight goals.
If Paolo Di Canio were to attract the ex-Chelsea star to the Stadium of Light it would really signal the intent of the Italian this season.
So far no fewer than nine new players have joined the north east club, with Italy international Emanuele Giaccherini the latest signing from Juventus.
With the experience of Meireles it would be a welcome addition to Di Canio’s side as Sunderland bid to improve on their disappointing 17th place finish in the last campaign.
Although it’s unknown exactly how much the midfielder would set the Mackems back, football website transfermarkt.com value the Portuguese at £10.5m.
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