Sunderland are reportedly "very hot" for an "elite" Europa League winner this summer, as they continue to pursue ambitious moves in the market.
Le Bris positive despite Sunderland friendly defeat
The Black Cats didn't exactly enjoy the ideal preparation for the beginning of the new Premier League season, losing 3-0 at home to Rayo Vallecano on Sunday.
Despite the result, Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris was in relatively positive spirits, though, finding positives from a disappointing result.
“It was the last game of pre-season. So far, I like the behaviour of the whole team, the squad, the players. Today was tougher because our opponent is ready to go in LaLiga and we had a team with different references, different players, so it wasn’t easy to find the right balance.
"Until the end, they tried but it wasn’t to be today. We need time but at the same time we don’t have time. Performances are needed. The process is ongoing but we can feel the energy is positive. We know the challenge will be tough but to reach it will be really important.“Our togetherness and intensity and desire to play for Sunderland will help."
It remains to be seen how much business Sunderland do before the transfer window ends, following a productive summer that has seen the likes of Granit Xhaka and Habib Diarra come in, but a new update suggests they remain keen on another playuer.
Sunderland "very hot" for Europa League winner
According to journalist Sebastien Denis on X, Sunderland are "very hot" for Sevilla centre-back Loic Bade this summer, in a potential boost for Le Bris. His current club are demanding £30m for his signature.
Bade is a player with lots of pedigree, so the idea of him coming in and strengthening the Black Cats' defensive options has to be considered exciting.
The 25-year-old has won one cap for France, in an era full of fantastic centre-back options for Les Bleus, and he is a Europa League winner with Sevilla, also being hailed as "elite" by scout Jacek Kulig back in 2021.
That said, the fact that Bayer Leverkusen look like strong favourites to sign Bade is a clear blow for Sunderland, who may simply not be able to match the many things the former Bundesliga champions can offer him.
If the chance suddenly arises for the Black Cats to snap the Frenchman up from under their noses, though, they should do all they can to secure a major coup.