Sunderland hijack Marseille move as €25m Lutsharel Geertruida deal wrapped up despite agreement with RB Leipzig full-back

Marseille were under the impression they had sealed the signing of a reinforcement in Dutch defender Geertruida. The French club, in desperate need of a new defender, had reportedly reached an agreement on personal terms with the player, making a transfer seem all but done. However, in a shocking last-minute turn, full-back and centre-back Geertruida is heading to newly-promoted Premier League side Sunderland, according to Fabrizio Romano. The deal is a loan deal for €2.5 million with a purchase option set at €23m (£20m/$27m).

Marseille's ongoing struggle to strengthen their squad continues. The club's pursuit of Geertruida came after their move for Ecuadorian defender Joel Ordonez failed due to financially demanding negotiations with Club Brugge. The defensive shortcomings for Roberto De Zerbi's side have been obvious and is further underscored by their recent 1-0 loss to Lyon. For Sunderland, this move is a major coup that signals their ambition and financial power after a promising start to the Premier League season.

The 25-year-old has established himself as a key player for both RB Leipzig and Netherlands, with 17 caps to his name. The player was an integral part of Leipzig's squad playing 39 games for the club in which he scored a goal while providing an assist. The ex-Feyenoord defender was also targeted by AC Milan and Nottingham Forest. 

The frustration of missing out on Geertruida for Marseille is immense, and they must now scramble to find a replacement before the transfer window closes. The club are expected to turn their attention to other targets, with West Ham United's Nayef Aguerd, who is close to joining the French club, and Inter's Benjamin Pavard being mentioned as potential alternatives.

Additional reporting by Patrick Tchanhoun.