Exclusive: Sunderland’s three-man signing plan revealed
Sunderland are still in the market for another three major signings despite their busy start to the transfer window, sources have told Football Insider.
The Black Cats want big arrivals at goalkeeper, centre midfielder, and centre-forward before the window slams shut.
Regis Le Bris’ side have already spent big so far this summer, confirming the signing of Enzo Le Fee for £20million, as well as reportedly agreeing a club-record £30m deal for Senegal midfielder Habib Diarra.
Sunderland sold Jobe Bellingham to Borussia Dortmund last month, and that fee is being reinvested ahead of the club’s first season back in the Premier League.
Sunderland spending big to avoid relegation
Sources say that Sunderland’s ambitious start to the transfer window is due to the fact that club chiefs know that they must spend to compete in the top-flight.
The Wearside club are showing no signs of slowing down in the market, having already splashed a combined £50m on Diarra and Le Fee.
Next season, the Black Cats are aiming to become the first side in three years to avoid an immediate relegation back down to the Championship.
In the 2024/25 campaign, Leicester, Ipswich, and Southampton all failed to beat the drop, with Luton, Burnley, and Sheffield United suffering the same fate the year before.
Sunderland set sights on Abdoulaye Doucoure deal
Meanwhile, Football Insider exclusively revealed that Sunderland are considering a free transfer move for Abdoulaye Doucoure after his Everton exit.
The 32-year-old’s Toffees deal expired on Monday (30 June) and the Merseysiders have confirmed he will be moving on.
Doucoure is on the list at Sunderland following their promotion to the Premier League via the play-offs last term.
However, Saudi Pro League clubs are also keen on Doucoure with Sunderland not yet advancing their interest in the midfielder.
For more Sunderland and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.