Sunderland eye left-back signing to bolster Premier League campaign
Sunderland are considering another defensive addition before the new season, with Sassuolo left-back Josh Doig emerging as a potential target for Régis Le Bris. The Black Cats also have Europa League football to balance alongside another Premier League campaign, meaning greater depth will be essential if they want to compete effectively on multiple fronts.
Why it matters for Sunderland
Their summer has been relatively measured compared with last year's huge recruitment drive. Sports Mole listed experienced right-back Thomas Meunier among the key arrivals while Cirkin, Dan Neil and Eliezer Mayenda have all moved on. According to the Daily Record, as relayed by Sunderland Echo, Sunderland have registered an interest in Doig as they assess their options ahead of the opening weeks of the campaign.
What comes next?
The 24-year-old has built considerable experience in Italy since leaving Hibernian for Hellas Verona in 2022. He later joined Sassuolo in January 2024 and has since established himself as a regular on the left side. However, Sunderland are not alone. Marseille and Olympiakos are also interested, potentially forcing the Wearside club to make a decision sooner rather than later if they view Doig as a serious target.
Doig's profile fits Sunderland's needs
Doig would be an interesting signing because Sunderland now need players capable of improving the squad without completely disrupting what already works. After finishing seventh last season and securing European football, their challenge has changed. They are no longer simply building a squad capable of surviving in the Premier League; they need enough quality to handle a significantly heavier schedule.
Sunderland's current form
At 24, Doig still has room to improve but already possesses several seasons of senior experience in Italian football. Marseille may represent the biggest complication, particularly given their previous interest in the Scot. Olympiakos can also offer European football, so Sunderland cannot assume Premier League status will automatically win the race. Still, with Cirkin gone, left-back is an area worth addressing. If the price remains reasonable, Doig looks like the kind of practical, upward-moving signing Sunderland should seriously consider before rival clubs take the opportunity away.
League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 7th in Premier League, 54 pts, 14W-12D-12L from 38 games, recent form WWDDL.
Sunderland have a strong chance of signing Doig, given their current form and the need for a left-back. The Black Cats are on a 4-game winning run, with their last result being a 2-1 win over Chelsea on May 24. They are 31 points behind leaders Arsenal in the title race and have scored 42 goals this season, conceding 48. Their next fixture is away to Ipswich on August 22.
Next fixture: vs Ipswich (away, 2026-08-22)
With a strong squad and a good run of form, Sunderland are well-placed to make a move for Doig. The 24-year-old left-back has the experience and quality to make an impact at the Stadium of Light, and his signing could be a shrewd move for the Black Cats.
