Turkish Giants Push For Sunderland Defender Transfer Deal, Manager Gives Green Light

Paris Saint-Germain's Swedish forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic (L) reacts in front of Nantes' Senegalese defender Papy Djilobodji during the French L1 football match between Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Nantes at the Parc des Princes stadium in Paris on December 6, 2014. AFP PHOTO / FRANCK FIFE (Photo credit should read FRANCK FIFE/AFP/Getty Images)

Trabzonspor are keen on signing Sunderland defender Papy Djilobodji according to reports in Turkey.

Ajansspor claim that the Super Lig outfit have identified Djilobodji as a key target.

Per the source, Trabzonspor manager Unal Karaman has given the board the green light to push ahead with a move.

The Black Sea based side want to complete their transfers early and plan for the 2018-19 campaign.

The 29-year-old defender has another two-years left on his contract with the Black Cats.

Sunderland sent Djilobodji to Ligue 1 outfit Dijon last season.

The Senegal international scored once and provided an assist in 31 games for the French side in all competitions last season.

The defender joined Sunderland on an £8.55 million [Transfermarkt] move in 2016 but has made just 24 appearances in all competitions for the League One outfit.

Trabzonspor would also be keen on a temporary move due to Financial Fair Play constraints.

Djilobodji does have another two-years remaining on his current contract with Sunderland.