Régis Le Bris issues Sunderland transfer update as deadline day plans become clear

Sunderland manager Régis Le Bris has confirmed the club remain active in the transfer market, with the Black Cats continuing their search for new signings ahead of the September 1 deadline.

Despite preparing for the Premier League and for a Europa League campaign, Sunderland have enjoyed a relatively quiet summer, with Le Bris insisting the club are focused on finding the right profiles rather than making signings for the sake of it.

Following Sunderland's pre-season victory over Lens, Le Bris admitted work is continuing behind the scenes to strengthen his squad before the transfer window closes.

The Frenchman stressed that recruitment has become more challenging following the club's return to the top flight.

"The transfer window is still unpredictable, but we are working behind the scenes to strengthen the squad. It's a little different compared to last season. We have to be really precise, and when you are looking for someone, a specific profile, it's much harder."

Le Bris also warned that new arrivals alone will not guarantee success.

"It's important to sign new players, but it doesn't mean we'll be stronger. It's about our culture, the way we are growing together."

So far, experienced Belgium international Thomas Meunier is Sunderland's only senior signing of the summer after joining on a free transfer from Lille.

Meanwhile, several players have departed the Stadium of Light.

Eliezer Mayenda completed a permanent move to Rennes, while Dan Neil, Timothée Pembélé and Harrison Jones have also left the club. Dennis Cirkin, Bertrand Traoré and Niall Huggins departed following the expiry of their contracts.

With Sunderland set to balance Premier League and Europa League commitments, further additions are expected before the window shuts.

The summer transfer window closes at 11pm on Tuesday, September 1, giving Sunderland just a few weeks to complete any remaining business.

If agreements are reached close to the deadline, clubs can submit a deal sheet before 11pm, allowing until 1am to finalise the necessary paperwork.

Sunderland are expected to continue pursuing reinforcements during the final weeks of the transfer window as Le Bris looks to build a squad capable of competing in both the Premier League and the Europa League.