Sunderland ‘in talks’ with Jose Fonte over coaching role | OneFootball

The Sun reports that Sunderland are in talks with former Portugal international Jose Fonte about joining Régis Le Bris’ coaching staff, with discussions progressing.

Nothing has been finalised.

Fonte, 42, retired in May after 882 senior appearances and a European Championship win with Portugal in 2016. If an agreement is reached, he would add significant Premier League and international experience at the Stadium of Light.

Le Bris’ squad reported back for pre-season at the Academy of Light on Thursday, and Fonte was not present.

The former centre-back is best known in England for seven years at Southampton, having joined from Crystal Palace in 2010. He made almost 300 appearances and was central to the club’s rise from League One to the Premier League.

The ex-West Ham defender is preparing to move into coaching, and Sunderland are assessing whether a deal can be struck. No appointment has been confirmed.

Source: Sunderland Echo