Sunderland ready double transfer as red tape emerges for Regis Le Bris
Sunderland have already set their sights on the summer transfer window as they push for promotion to the Premier League.
The Mackems appear set to land fourth spot in the Championship, as they sit fifteen points clear of fifth-place Middlesbrough but seven points adrift of third-place Leeds with just six games remaining.
Regis Le Bris’ men have won their last two games and are looking to build on their momentum when they travel to Norwich on Tuesday.
Sunderland plot swoop for Orlando Pirates duo
Sunderland’s recruitment under the stewardship of Le Bris has caught the eye as the North East giants have welcomed successful additions such as striker Wilson Isidor.
According to South African outlet Soccer Laduma, the Mackems are interested in signing Orlando Pirates duo Tshegofatso Mabasa and Thalente Mbatha.
| Tshegofatso Mabasa stats | 2024/25 all competitions |
| Appearances | 36 |
| Goals | 13 |
| Assists | 1 |
Striker Mabasa has notched 13 goals in 36 appearances across all competitions this term, while Mbatha is a midfielder who represented South Africa in the March international break.
However, it has also been revealed that the forward could struggle to acquire a UK work permit due to a lack of international appearances in recent years.
Sunderland are set for a busy transfer window
If the Mackems successfully win promotion from the Championship to the Premier League, they will need to equip their squad for life in the top flight in the summer transfer window.
But even if Le Bris and Co do not clinch promotion, the North East club are set for a busy transfer window, which could now be even more eventful amid their interest in Mabasa and Mbatha.
Chris Rigg is still only 17 but has established a reputation as one of the best players in the Championship and is not short of suitors in the transfer market.
The teenager has attracted interest from the likes of Premier League Everton, while the Toffees are keen to retain their positive momentum under ex-Sunderland boss David Moyes.
Meanwhile, fellow Mackems youngster Tommy Watson has already agreed a deal to join Brighton ahead of next season, and Le Bris will be keen to find a replacement for the wideman this summer.
It’s a wild summer ahead.