Sunderland are working to make more summer signings behind the scenes

Régis Le Bris says Sunderland are working hard to strengthen their squad but will keep their business under the radar to ensure they can be as efficient as possible.

The Black Cats played their second pre-season friendly in Nashville on Saturday evening, losing 4-2 to Liverpool. So far Thomas Meunier is the club's only signing of the summer transfer window as they bid for stability within their squad. Le Bris confirmed last week that the club were looking to add three or four 'core' players before the end of the window, potentially signing six or seven in total. Speaking after the Liverpool defeat, Le Bris said it was imperative that Sunderland go about their business quietly behind the scenes.

Le Bris said: "It's going to be quiet, under the radar. I won't give you information!

"I think we are working hard behind the scenes and it's really important to be quiet otherwise it's a mess. We are looking for probably a different transfer window if we compare with last season. We had to sign 14 new players, won't be the case this year. We'll see what will happen."

Le Bris also addressed Granit Xhaka's future for the first time this summer, saying that the topic is 'closed'. Chelsea had made a bid to reunite Xhaka with their new head coach Xabi Alonso, and despite initially being open to the move the midfielder told Sunderland he would stay at the club.

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"This topic is closed," Le Bris said.

"Granit has been really clear about his future, he loves Sunderland, he wants to stay in Sunderland, he wants to make the future of Sunderland. He's a good captain, a great leader."

Speaking during Switzerland's run to the World Cup quarter finals, Xhaka said: "Sunderland has been my home since day one. We are all very happy. I decided to stay where I am; family is the most important thing. I am ready to make history with them."

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