Sunderland manager Régis Le Bris has confirmed that the club remains active in the final days of the January transfer window, with a focus on strengthening their attacking options. With just days left before the deadline, Sunderland is still exploring potential signings to bolster their frontline, aiming to add at least one versatile forward who can operate across multiple positions. However, they remain flexible and could bring in multiple reinforcements if the right opportunities arise.
The transfer window officially closes at 11 p.m. on Monday, shortly after Sunderland’s crucial Championship derby against Middlesbrough at the Riverside. While Le Bris acknowledges that failing to add attacking depth would be a risk, he remains confident in his current squad and insists the club will manage the situation if no deals materialize.
“This market is unpredictable,” Le Bris admitted. “The January window is much harder than the summer. Many clubs are chasing the same targets, and players who are available one day can be off the table the next. We’re working hard, and hopefully, we’ll succeed. But we don’t need a lot of signings. We already have a strong squad, and if we can strengthen, great. If not, we’ll adapt.”
Le Bris highlighted that Sunderland’s biggest weakness right now is their lack of depth in forward positions. While the team has solid options in midfield and defense, the attack remains thin, especially when injuries strike. He stressed that with the race for promotion entering a crucial phase, this is not the time for player development—it’s about having a squad ready to compete at the highest level.
“In midfield and defense, we have depth, but that’s not the case for our strikers and wingers. We can manage with some versatility, but ultimately, we need more numbers up front. If we want to compete for the top two or top four, we need a complete squad with strong options in every position.”
Le Bris did acknowledge that Sunderland’s attacking depth will improve with the expected return of Romaine Mundle and Tommy Watson from injury in the coming weeks. However, Watson has attracted interest from Brighton, adding another layer of uncertainty before the window shuts.
As deadline day looms, Sunderland continues to push for late additions, knowing that any new arrivals could be vital in their pursuit of promotion.