Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris has admitted the club's summer transfer window is proving 'much harder' than last year's Premier League return campaign. The Black Cats finished 7th in the 2025 Premier League table with 54 points (14W-12D-12L), ending the season on a four-game winning run (WWWWD).
Why is recruitment more difficult?
Le Bris explained the challenge comes from preparing for both domestic and European competitions. 'Here we have to be really precise,' he said after Saturday's 2-0 pre-season win over Lens. 'When you're looking for someone with a specific profile, it's much harder.'
Who has joined so far?
The only permanent signing this window is defender Thomas Meunier, who arrived on a free transfer from Lille. Le Bris praised his squad's current strength, saying: 'The first good recruitment is to keep your strength.'
What's next for Sunderland?
The manager confirmed they're working behind the scenes to add 'two, three, four' players before the window closes. Sunderland begin their Europa League campaign in September after finishing 31 points behind league leaders Arsenal last season.
