Setting his sights on further arrivals, Regis Le Bris is reportedly set to drive Sunderland's move to sign a former Arsenal midfielder who he has already worked with in the past.
Commencing their summer business in style, the Black Cats are reportedly set to break their club-record deal to sign Habib Diarra from Strasbourg before also welcoming Reinildo from Atletico Madrid. An impressive double swoop, Le Bris will have himself a much-needed replacement for Jobe Bellingham as well as key depth at left-back.
Given that Leeds United were also interested in Diarra, Sunderland's move looks all the more impressive. Those in Wearside, by outbidding another promoted side, are set to make quite the statement.
The Black Cats may not be finished with their spending, however. Names such as Charlie Creswell have threatened to steal the headlines as of late in what would be another big-money deal. The defender has impressed ever since swapping Leeds for French side Toulouse and could now be on his way back to English football as a result.
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The Black Cats mean business.
Creswell's arrival would deal Leeds another blow, who could watch on as their former player stars elsewhere in the Premier League next season. That said, he's not the only name on Sunderland's reported radar.
As well as strengthening their backline, those at the Stadium of Light have also reportedly turned their focus back towards their midfield and signing an ex-Arsenal player. Perhaps attempting to find a partner for Diarra, Le Bris is now reportedly driving the move.
Le Bris driving move to sign Matteo Guendouzi
According to their former chief scout Mick Brown, Le Bris is set to be the "driving force" as Sunderland race to sign Matteo Guendouzi. The Frenchman previously worked under the Sunderland boss during their time together at FC Lorient's B team several years ago and could now finally have the chance to reunite with his former manager.
Speaking about the potential deal, Brown told Football Insider: “Sunderland are in a position where they feel they need to strengthen their squad. They need Premier League-level players and to get those you have to be ambitious in the market.
Lazio midfielder Matteo Guendouzi
“A lot of it will depend on what sort of fee his club are going to demand for him. The manager is playing a big role in their recruitment so far and did the same when they were in the Championship, he appears to have good relationships in France. He’s worked with Guendouzi before and he’s going to be the driving force behind the move."
Previously dubbed "impressive" by former Sunderland manager Sam Allardyce, Guendouzi has unfinished business in the Premier League and could have the chance to return from Lazio with a bang courtesy of the Black Cats this summer.