The Reds have turned to Geertruida as they seek a versatile defensive option for the second-half of the season.
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But with Sunderland reluctant to release the Dutchman without finding a replacement first - and the need to also negotiate with his parent club, RB Leipzig, the deal is appearing more and more remote.
Geertruida is on-loan this season at Sunderland from RBL, where he has a deal to 2029.
Further complicating the issue is Sunderland are in action tonight against Burnley - and manager Regis Le Bris is expected to including Geertruida in his matchday squad.