Trio of Sunderland rivals have eyes on Regis Le Bris as insider reveals Black Cats’ plan | OneFootball

Sunderland are preparing to open to talks with head coach Regis Le Bris as they look to keep him firmly out of the grasp of any interested clubs, TEAMtalk can reveal.

Le Bris arrived at the Stadium of Light in the summer of 2024 after he left French side Lorient, penning an initial three-year deal that tied him to the North East club until 2027.

However, such has been the impact Sunderland have made under Le Bris that the club are ready to offer him a significant pay rise.

Le Bris not only guided Sunderland to promotion in his first season via the Championship play-offs, he now has the club challenging for the top six in the Premier League.

Sunderland spent a hefty sum in the summer, but their progress under Le Bris has been remarkable and they are no longer being talked about as relegation contenders.

However, our sources understand that Le Bris’ performance at Sunderland has meant that his name is being talked about by a number of other clubs around Europe.

We also understand that the likes of Crystal Palace, Fulham and Bournemouth – who know him well through their sister club Lorient – have him on their radar.

All three Premier League rivals could very well be looking for new head coaches come the end of the season, with their current incumbents all out-of-contract.

Sunderland, though, are not panicked and we understand that Le Bris himself is very happy in the North East and is delighted with the backing he has thus far received from the club and would be open to fresh terms if, and when, they are offered.

Matteo Guendouzi’s future at Lazio remains a hot topic as the January transfer window approaches, and Sunderland could go head-to-head with Newcastle United and another Premier League side for his signature, TEAMtalk understands.

Elsewhere, Sunderland and Wolves have reportedly joined the race to sign a top Real Madrid attacking talent who excelled at the Club World Cup, ahead of the January transfer window.

And finally, Celtic have joined Sunderland in monitoring Moroccan midfielder Hossam Essadak, TEAMtalk understands, with the two sides gearing up for a January transfer battle.