Sunderland AFC is gearing up for the January transfer window with specific targets aimed at strengthening their squad. Head coach Régis Le Bris outlined the club's intent to add players for the midfield and forward positions to address current deficiencies caused by injuries.
Following injuries to key players Alan Browne and Chris Rigg, Sunderland finds itself short on options, particularly in midfield. Browne has been sidelined with a leg injury for nearly two months, and Rigg's absence limits the playing depth needed for success as the season progresses. "At the minute we only have two midfielders available at the top level. We can develop other players like Milan [Aleksic], but he needs time to develop at this level," Le Bris stated, indicating the urgency of securing reinforcements.
While Salis Abdul Samed is on his way back to fitness and expected to make his competitive debut soon, the coaching staff remains cautious about his reintroduction. The search for another midfielder is particularly pressing, as Le Bris aims to solidify this position to sustain the team's performance through the remaining fixtures. "A striker, a versatile forward - we don't know because the market is still unpredictable," he noted, hinting at the difficulties of procuring new talents amid broader market uncertainties.
Aside from bolstering the squad, another priority for the Black Cats will be maintaining their key assets. Players such as Jobe Bellingham and Chris Rigg are garnering attention from top-tier clubs, with many monitoring their development closely. Despite this interest, Le Bris expressed confidence, insisting, "While transfer interest is certainly an option, our young players are enjoying their growth and being part of our promotion aspirations this season.”
Le Bris emphasized the philosophy ingrained within the squad, which he sees as beneficial for current players and any potential newcomers. He believes the environment cultivated at Sunderland—where players are committed to the club's vision—will aid recruitment efforts. "It's good news when other clubs show interest, but it’s also important to remind these players about the positive direction they are on with us," he stated.
Maintaining unity has emerged as another focal point for the club's strategy moving forward. Le Bris pointed out the increasing rarity of finding teams with strong camaraderie and shared objectives. "Finding this sense of togetherness within a group is a rarity," he remarked, acknowledging the challenges faced within the contemporary football scene.
Although Sunderland has made early-season strides, the clubs face the decentralized nature of player movement, especially for young players excelling in their roles. Le Bris understands larger clubs may express interest but believes firmly, "They have to understand this is about contributing to their teammates and not just individual accolades. This is about growth and sustainability for all involved.”
Sunderland AFC's proactive approach to their January transfer window ambitions is indicative of their commitment to reinvigorate the squad and continue their pursuit of promotion success. With injuries and transfer negotiations intertwined, the next few weeks will be pivotal for the Black Cats as they navigate the market and solidify their squad for the challenges ahead.