Régis Le Bris gives Bertrand Traoré contract update and outlines Sunderland plan | OneFootball

Régis Le Bris says Sunderland have opened talks with Bertrand Traoré over his future, with a final decision to be taken later.

According to Sunderland Echo, Traoré signed an initial one-year deal after moving from Ajax on deadline day last year, and the club hold an option to extend for another season.

The winger became a key part of Le Bris’s side but has made only two appearances since leaving for the Africa Cup of Nations after the previous Newcastle United game. He suffered a serious knee injury with Burkina Faso, then a recurrence at Elland Road earlier in March, and is expected to be out for about another month.

Sunderland are hopeful the 30-year-old can feature in the run-in, after which director of football Florent Ghisolfi is set to revisit discussions. Le Bris described it as too early to decide, noting Traoré and Ghisolfi have already spoken and that the parties will wait.

With Nilson Angulo also sidelined for four to six weeks, Le Bris said the plan was always to share the role across two to four players given the demands on young wide players.

Chris Rigg forced his way into contention with an excellent display against Brighton before Sunday’s Tyne-Wear derby. Chemsdine Talbi and Eliezer Mayenda are alternatives, while Trai Hume has operated higher up when Nordi Mukiele has played full back.

Le Bris praised Rigg’s response after a difficult festive spell, including an early-season setback at Aston Villa when he was withdrawn following Reinildo’s red card. He said Rigg still needs to sharpen his end product but highlighted his versatility across No.8, No.10 and right wing, work-rate and mindset.

Source: Sunderland Echo