Régis Le Bris confirms Sunderland transfer stance as Isidor future addressed

Sunderland head coach Régis Le Bris has confirmed the club are still actively working on potential transfers ahead of the January deadline, while also addressing speculation surrounding striker Wilson Isidor.

With 11 days remaining in the window, Sunderland’s business has been measured rather than frantic. Their only confirmed arrival so far is winger Jocelin Ta Bi, signed from Maccabi Netanya on a long-term deal. Internally, the move is viewed as one for the future rather than an immediate first-team solution, reflecting the club’s relatively stable position heading into the second half of the season.

Despite limited visible activity, Le Bris insists work is ongoing behind the scenes. The Black Cats are assessing opportunities both in terms of potential arrivals and managing the futures of players seeking minutes.

“There’s nothing official at the minute, but we’re working hard,” Le Bris explained. “We’re open to different options. Sometimes you can achieve your objective, sometimes it’s not possible — but we’re working.”

Much of the focus has been on Wilson Isidor, who has been linked with a move away from the Stadium of Light amid reported interest from Everton and Nottingham Forest. Figures around £25m have been mentioned, though no formal approach has been confirmed.

Isidor’s reduced role has coincided with strong form from Brian Brobbey, who has led the line effectively, but Le Bris stressed the French forward remains an important part of his plans.

“For Wilson, I’ve had many conversations with him and his agent,” Le Bris said. “He’s a really good player, important for us. He did really well in the past and for sure in the future as well.

“It’s positive for Sunderland to have Brian in good form, and to have Eli Mayenda and Wilson ready. They’re young players in a new league — it’s normal to have difficult periods.”

When asked whether Isidor’s potential sale would be followed by reinvestment, Le Bris avoided specifics, instead highlighting the importance of squad balance and having multiple striker options.

Movement elsewhere in the squad is also possible. Sunderland have been linked with Jonas Omlin of Borussia Mönchengladbach, a deal that could open the door for Anthony Patterson to leave on loan. Patterson has been mentioned as a possible target for Millwall, where he would reunite with former boss Alex Neil.

Le Bris kept his response measured when asked about individual cases.

“The idea is the same,” he said. “For players who need minutes, the conversation is open. If we can find an agreement that’s positive for both sides, we’ll move forward.”

Crucially, Le Bris revealed that no player has formally pushed for a move so far, praising the atmosphere within the group and the transparency of communication.

“They know how important they are, even if they don’t have game time,” he said. “They’re important in the dressing room, in training, and they like the club. Sometimes opportunities come suddenly — the dynamic can change very quickly.”

Midfielder Dan Neil is another name attracting attention, with his contract set to expire in the summer. Interest has been reported from Rangers and FC Köln, though Sunderland are currently holding firm. Romaine Mundle, meanwhile, is expected to remain at the club until at least the end of the season.

As deadline day approaches, Sunderland are likely to remain opportunistic rather than reactive. Any departures will depend on finding solutions that benefit both the player and the club, while potential incomings are expected to be carefully targeted rather than rushed.

Much will depend on late-window developments, but for now, the Black Cats are focused on maintaining momentum and squad harmony.

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