Sunderland’s focus has now shifted towards the transfer market after the appointment of Régis Le Bris with all eyes on sporting director Kristjaan Speakman and head of recruitment Stuart Harvey.
The 48-year-old Frenchman was appointed as Sunderland’s new head earlier this summer, signing a three-year deal on Wearside after leaving French club FC Lorient. Sunderland have since signed Simon Moore and Alan Browne as their preparations for the new season ramp up.
Le Bris expressed his desire to keep Jack Clarke at the club but admitted there are no guarantees in the transfer market. The player then spoke to the media after Sunderland’s pre-season friendly loss against Gateshead.
When asked about transfer interest after the game, Clarke replied: “Obviously that interest has been there but it doesn't affect me. I'm still wearing a red and white shirt at the end of the day. That's what I'm focusing on. As long as I'm in a red and white shirt, that's all I'll be focusing on.
“I'm coming in every single day, wearing Sunderland colours every day. As long as I'm playing for Sunderland I won't be thinking about anything else. If things are going to happen then they're going to happen when they happen. I'm not focusing on anything else other than the present and in the present, I'm playing for Sunderland.”
Here, we take a look at how Le Bris’ dream starting XI and squad could look if Jack Clarke decides to stay and Sunderland secure their preferred striker options this summer:
5. CB: Daniel Ballard
The 24-year-old has just signed a new deal at Sunderland until 2028. The defender picked up an injury earlier this summer and is yet to feature this season but is a crucial player when not injured. Photo: Frank Reid
6. CM: Dan Neil
While Neil's impressive performances will have attracted interest, the Sunderland academy graduate agreed a new deal on Wearside last year, which will run until the summer of 2026. The 22-year-old has talked about his desire to reach the Premier League with his boyhood club. Neil has also been made Sunderland's team captain. | Chris Fryatt Photo: Chris Fryatt
7. CM: Jobe Bellingham
Still only 18, Bellingham signed a new contract with the club this summer. While there has been reported interest from Premier League clubs, Jobe is set to remain on Wearside this season. Photo: Frank Reid
8. RW: Patrick Roberts
Sunderland turned down a late bid from Southampton for the winger during last summer’s transfer window. The 27-year-old then signed a new deal with the Black Cats in November, which will run until the summer of 2026, with a club option of an extra year Photo: Ed Sykes