Régis Le Bris explains Sunderland's quiet January transfer window so far and underlines club stance
Sunderland are yet to make an addition in the January window but are hopeful that they can strengthen
Régis Le Bris says Sunderland are aiming high in the January transfer market and insists they will not do any business for the sake of it.
The Sunderland head coach confirmed that no new additions were imminent, though they continue to proactively continue to monitor the market in ‘two or three’ positions. Le Bris says he is relaxed about the situation and that it’s a reflection of the strong position the club have put themselves in half way through their first campaign back at Premier League level.
“It's a difficult window but it could have been more difficult - we're in a good place,” Le Bris said.
“Our standards are high so if you want to replace someone or add a new player, it's really demanding. But that's really positive for the club and fans and everyone here.
“Now we are targeting really specific positions, but we are not the only ones. It's often offensive positions with specific qualities and it's tough to find.
“It’s important to say as well that at Sunderland the identity is to build rather than buy,” Le Bris added.
“We are really good at supporting the players and giving opportunities to young players. They might not be so strong at the beginning but they have this potential. We give them opportunities and then they can become good or very good players.”
While the club would like to strengthen, Le Bris said he was comfortable working with the existing squad
“Yes, because I believe the recruitment staff are working hard,” Le Bris said.
“We have many conversations with Flo, Kyril and Kristjaan and we are fully aligned. I'm really focused on the squad and the way we can develop.
“I trust the players we have. If we can improve the squad, let's do it. If we can't, maybe it's the right decision.”
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Why Bertrand Traoré injury won’t impact Sunderland’s transfer plans
While the wing positions are one area where Sunderland would be open to making an addition this month, Le Bris said a knee injury to Bertrand Traoré would not impact their approach.
Traoré is expected to be out for around four to six weeks with an injury he picked up during the Africa Cup of Nations, and Le Bris is confident he has the options he needs to manage that absence if the right player isn’t available in the transfer market.
“I don't think it's connected,” Le Bris said.
“We're expecting a 3-4 week time frame, so we won't rush the process, because it's better to give him a strong rehabilitation programme. He'll be back soon, so it's not really well connected. We have other options, because we worked without him for almost four weeks, and it was possible.”