Sunderland transfers: Transfer deadline, Regis Le Bris comments and possible deals
Sunderland are working to add further new faces to their squad ahead of transfer deadline day.
The clock is ticking towards the end of the summer transfer window - and Sunderland are working hard to add further new faces to their squad ahead of their first ever Europa League campaign.
Just 12 months have past since one of the most transformative transfer windows in the club’s history laid the foundations for a truly incredible season as Regis Le Bris’ side surpassed all expectations to earn a seventh place finish in last season’s Premier League and secure European qualification for the first time since 1973.
The likes of Granit Xhaka, Robin Roefs and Brian Brobbey all arrived in preparation for what would become a historic campaign and they will remain key figures within Le Bris’ ranks as they look for further success during the current season. However, there is also an acceptance further strengthening is required. Although there is excitement over facing the likes of AC Milan and AZ Alkmaar in the Europa League, there is also an understanding that the eight additional games provided by competing in UEFA’s secondary club competition will place pressure on Le Bris to manage the fitness levels of his squad throughout a hectic season.
So with the clock ticking down, what do we know about transfer deadline day and what has Le Bris said about possible incomings over the next 24 hours?
What business have Sunderland completed during the summer transfer window?
As it stands, Sunderland had added three new faces to their squad ahead of the home game against Fulham. Belgium international Thomas Meunier was their first addition of the summer when he completed a free transfer switch to Wearside following his departure from French club Lille. He was followed by a big money move for France Under-21 international Dayaan Methalie and Royal Antwerp midfielder Jules Ahoka became the third new signing of the summer last week. The main outgoings were the departures of Anthony Patterson and Eliezer Mayenda as they joined Wrexham and Stade Rennais respectively - but the likes of Dennis Cirkin, Arthur Masuaku, Harrison Jones and Timothee Pembele have also found new clubs.
The Echo has launched a new WhatsApp SAFC Channel to bring the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates direct to your phone. Simply click this link to join our SAFC WhatsApp channel.
What has Regis Le Bris said about transfers in recent days?
Speaking in the aftermath of Sunday’s narrow win against Premier League rivals Fulham, the Black Cats boss said: “We will see what happens. The most important thing is what we saw this afternoon – the core of the group is very good. The players are all in. You can’t play at that level if you are not all in and so well-connected with the project at the club. I trust and have confidence in the energy of the squad. After that, if we can add one or two signings to the group, that will help the squad, then we will do it.”
Who have Sunderland been linked with in recent days?
Sunderland’s main focus appears to be on strengthening in defence and on the wing. A loan bid for Tottenham Hotspur’s defender Kevin Danso was rejected by the North London club last week - although recent reports have suggested the two clubs are back in contact over a possible agreement ahead of transfer deadline day. The former Lens defender has informed Spurs head coach Roberto De Zerbi of his desire to leave the club before the summer transfer window comes to a close.
The Black Cats are also said to retain an interest in Marseille winger Igor Paixao and Roma forward Matias Soule - although North East rivals Newcastle are also said to be keen on the latter of that duo. There were reports stating Sunderland submitted a £34.2m offer for Paixao earlier this month and the Brazilian is understood to be keen on a move to Wearside but no agreement has been struck as yet. In terms of outgoings, Jocelin Ta Bi is believed to be close to joining Championship club Burnley on loan - and The Echo understands there has been interest from England and France in recent weeks.
When does the summer transfer window close?
There is one major change to this year’s summer transfer business and it will mean Sunderland have some additional time to secure some last-minute deals. Unlike last summer, when a hectic summer transfer window came to a close at 7pm, the Black Cats and their Premier League rivals will have until 11pm on Tuesday night to put the finishing touches to any deals.
How can clubs receive two extra hours to complete summer transfer window deals?
Sunderland can still finalise business after the summer transfer window comes to a close at 11pm and that would come in the form of a deal sheet. As explained on the Premier League’s official website: “The deal sheet allows a club to confirm that a deal has been reached in order to allow for additional time to submit the remaining documentation.” That means, with this year’s 11pm deadline, a deal sheet can only be used after 9pm on Friday and must be fully submitted to the Premier League before 11pm. Once the deal sheet is successfully with the league, the two clubs involved in the deal will have an additional two hours to submit the full paperwork.