Who Sunderland are trying to sign next after major Xhaka and Lauriente deals
Regis Le Bris and Sunderland have not been afraid to splash the cash since their promotion to the Premier League.
So far this summer, the Black Cats have signed six players as they look to survive the drop.
Recently, Sunderland have been linked with a shock move for Granit Xhaka, who has enjoyed a highly successful spell at Bayer Leverkusen.
On top of this, Armand Lauriente looks set to become Sunderland’s seventh signing of the summer, after an agreement was reached with Sassuolo.
However, Le Bris has no plans of ending his summer spending spree here.
Sunderland want a new centre-back
If Sunderland want to stay in the Premier League, they are likely going to need additional signings.
Therefore, according to the Sunday Mirror, page 72 (20 July), the Black Cats are now set to pursue a centre-back in the transfer window.
After striking a deal for Lauriente, the report states that Le Bris’ focus is on upgrading Sunderland’s backline and midfield options.
The Black Cats have already had a bid rejected for Lille centre-back Bafode Diakite.
There has also been an enquiry for Igor Julio, who currently plays for Brighton and Hove Albion, while talks for Bologna’s Jhon Lucumi have proved to be unsuccessful so far.
Meanwhile, Leverkusen are determined to keep hold of Xhaka, with is also wanted by Saudi side Neom SC.
New defenders are at must at the Stadium of Light
So far, Sunderland have mainly signed attackers this summer, a position that rightly needed reinforcing.
However, now that this is sorted, the Black Cats must target additional defenders.
It is no good having an excellent attack if the defence is not going to be able to withstand Premier League strikers.
Therefore, a top-quality defender may prove to be the difference between survival and relegation at the Stadium of Light.
Hopefully, Sunderland will be able to land one of their targets over the coming weeks before their first game of the campaign against West Ham.
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