Sunderland beat RC Lens 2-0 on Saturday as they stepped up their preparations for the new campaign

Régis Le Bris says he is confident that Sunderland will add to their squad between now and the end of the transfer window and insists that the team is in a good place ahead of the new campaign.

Sunderland have so far only made one signing in the summer transfer window, though Thomas Meunier made an excellent impression with his first 45 minutes against RC Lens on Saturday. The Black Cats ran out comfortable 2-0 winners against the Coupe de France holders, which Le Bris believes is a sign of the strength within the existing squad. The head coach stressed the importance of retaining key players, which so far Sunderland have managed.

Le Bris also ruled out the departure of Wilson Isidor, who scored the second goal at Stade Bollaert-Delelis.

"Thomas was excellent today, like he was with us for two seasons," Le Bris said.

"It was really good, a good connection. One signing but a good signing, so great!

"I think today, and probably in the USA as well, we showed that our squad is already well connected with good players, and probably the first good recruitment is to keep your strength.

"I think at the minute that's done which is really good, and we'll add two, three, four... we'll see. The transfer window is still unpredictable, but we are working behind the scenes to strengthen the squad. It's a little different compared to last season, we have to be really precise, and when you are looking for someone, a specific profile, it's much harder.

"It's important to [remember that you can] sign new players, but it doesn't mean that we'll be stronger," Le Bris added.

"It's about our culture, the way we are growing together, and I think we showed in America and even more today that the team is strong. Obviously the Premier League is really demanding, really challenging, but it's a new step forward."

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Régis Le Bris confirms 2026/27 plan for Timur Tutierov and Jenson Seelt

Le Bris also confirmed that Timur Tutierov was set to stay around the first-team group this season, having signed a new contract earlier this summer. Tutierov was a second half substitute against Lens, having played 45 minutes earlier in the day for the U21s.

Le Bris said: "Yes, he's learning, he has the profile to play right or left winger, so it's positive. He's young and he needs experience, but he will be around the squad for sure. We need depth this season, so it's good for him of course."

While Jenson Seelt also featured in the win over RC Lens, Le Bris hinted that he is still likely to depart the club before the end of the transfer window. Sunderland would ideally like to sign another centre back in the current window, which would pave the way for Seelt to leave in search of more regular game time.

Le Bris said: "We'll see, depending on the flow of the recruitment. It might be positive for him to find game time, but at the same time we need to keep a few spots, so we'll decide later."

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