Sunderland AFC have stepped into the transfer spotlight by initiating talks with OGC Nice to sign Poland international Marcin Bulka. In what marks a significant statement of intent, the newly promoted Premier League side is targeting the in-form goalkeeper as a key summer acquisition to strengthen their return to top-flight football.
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Bulka’s Rise to Prominence in Ligue 1
Marcin Bulka has enjoyed a stellar 2023-24 campaign with OGC Nice, showcasing elite shot-stopping abilities and remarkable consistency. His most iconic moment came against Paris Saint-Germain, his former club, where he delivered 12 crucial saves in a shocking 3-1 win – PSG’s first defeat of the season.
Bulka’s performance earned widespread acclaim. “We had a goalkeeper in a state of grace,” said Nice manager Franck Haise. PSG’s Luis Enrique echoed the sentiment, stating, “Credit to Nice, they defended incredibly tonight with a goalkeeper who made some superb saves.”
Reflecting on that night, Bulka admitted to DAZN: “Yes, I do have a bit of a revenge spirit when I come here.”
From Poland to Premier League Dreams
Born in Płock, Poland, Bulka began his footballing journey at FCB Escola Varsovia before signing for Chelsea in 2016. Despite being highly rated, he never made a senior appearance for the Blues but did collect an FA Youth Cup medal.
A move to Paris Saint-Germain in 2019 offered another high-profile platform, though again, game time was limited. It was only after joining OGC Nice—initially on loan in 2021—that Bulka’s career truly flourished. He made his move permanent in 2022 and has since grown into one of Ligue 1’s best custodians.
In the 2023-24 season, his 747-minute clean sheet streak placed him among the top 10 longest in Ligue 1 history, alongside legends like Gaëtan Huard and Vincent Enyeama.
Contract Uncertainty Opens the Door
Bulka’s current contract with Nice runs until 2026. However, renewal negotiations have reportedly stalled. With the risk of losing him for free next year, Nice are now open to selling the player this summer. That has sparked interest from multiple European clubs including Galatasaray, AS Monaco, and Manchester United.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Sunderland have now entered the race and are actively in discussions to bring the Polish goalkeeper to the Stadium of Light.
Sunderland’s Premier League Ambitions
Back in the Premier League for the first time since the 2016/17 season, Sunderland are eager to avoid being relegation fodder. Promoted through the Championship playoffs after defeating Sheffield United, the club views Bulka as a transformative figure in their project.
Targeting a goalkeeper of his calibre not only strengthens their defensive spine but also signals their intent to build a competitive and forward-looking squad.
Should the deal materialize, it would mark one of Sunderland’s boldest moves in the modern era. A proven performer with elite European experience, Bulka could bring both quality and leadership to a side determined to establish itself in the Premier League again.
Read More: Jarell Quansah to Leverkusen: Liverpool’s €60M Buy-Back Revealed
FAQs
Who is Marcin Bulka?
He is a 25-year-old Polish goalkeeper currently playing for OGC Nice, formerly with Chelsea and PSG.
Why is he leaving Nice?
Contract talks with Nice have stalled, and the club wants to avoid losing him for free in 2026.
What clubs are interested?
Galatasaray, Monaco, Manchester United, and Sunderland have all shown interest.
Why Sunderland?
The newly promoted Premier League side sees Bulka as a key figure for their long-term project.
What is his biggest achievement so far?
A 747-minute clean sheet run and a Man of the Match performance vs PSG in 2023-24 stand out.
