Sunderland ‘have ideal defender transfer lined up’ as ex-West Brom ace targeted
Sunderland are already preparing to bring in new and experienced talent for their Premier League return.
The Black Cats will first appear back in the Premier League in August, after eight years out of the top flight.
A successful Championship play-off victory over Sheffield United a week-and-a-half ago earned Sunderland promotion, after finishing fourth in the league.
Regis Le Bris already has his sights set on key targets ahead of the summer transfer window to ensure Sunderland are well prepared to head into the intensity of next season.
The North East club has acquired young talent over the years, allowing Sunderland to spend big this summer in preparation.
Sunderland consider former West Brom defender Cedric Kipre
Sunderland are looking for both experienced and defensive reinforcements ahead of next season.
The Black Cats hope for a more successful Premier League season than newly promoted teams have had in recent years.
According to AfricaFoot (31 May), Sunderland have been showing interest in Ivorian central defender Cedric Kipre.
The 28-year-old currently plays for French side Reims. However, after suffering relegation from Ligue 1, he is looking to remain in a top league.
While the defender was unable to prevent Reims’ relegation, his performances this season have displayed both consistency and leadership on the pitch.
Several other European clubs are reportedly interested in the Ivorian international.
Kipre would be a perfect fit for Sunderland
Kipre would certainly help Sunderland next season, as he has valuable experience of the English game from his time at West Brom, Wigan Athletic and Cardiff City.
| Apperances | 28 |
| Duels Won | 62.5% |
| Tackles Won | 71.4% |
With Sunderland fielding the youngest average Championship side this past season, knowledge and leadership from more experienced players such as Kipre could build on Sunderland’s success into next year.
Alternatively, Mali defender Modibo Sagnan has been reported as another recently relegated Ligue 1 defender who could arrive at the Stadium of Light this summer.
Bringing in a central defender is a focus point of the transfer window, after reports that Sunderland may have to compete to keep Chris Mepham on a long-term basis, as Sheffield United have expressed interest.
The Black Cats certainly could use Reims’ relegation to their advantage to attract Kipre, whose addition would be valuable for Le Bris’s side.