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Regis Le Bris to be backed in January as Sunderland have one key position ‘on their radar’

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We are already looking ahead to the January transfer window, and it seems Sunderland are doing the same, as we are exclusively told the Black Cats have big plans to spend again.

After spending just over £163m in the summer on 15 new signings, Sunderland owner Kyril Louis-Dreyfus could be forgiven for tightening the purse strings from here on out.

However, with the Black Cats making a phenomenal start to the season, it’s now looking likely Sunderland will be able to avoid relegation and establish themselves as a Premier League outfit for the long-term.

So, what do the Mackems intend to do in January? Will they stick with what they’ve got, or make moves again to push for even loftier ambitions?

Wilson Isidor and Granit Xhaka celebrate as Sunderland score against Aston Villa
Photo by ANDY BUCHANAN/AFP via Getty Images

Sunderland will shop for a new striker in January

We asked our Chief Football Correspondent, Graeme Bailey, what Sunderland’s plans are for the January transfer window, and he told TBR Football that the Black Cats will not be afraid to spend again in the New Year.

Bailey said: “Sunderland did not back Regis Le Bris in the summer just to shut up shop in January, in terms of ins and outs. If they need to do something they will and those conversations are ongoing now.

“Le Bris has got the best out of the summer signings and that has been hugely impressive, indeed if you look at Sunderland’s best XI you could argue that nine of them are new – which is amazing really.”

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Indeed, many have praised the acquisition of Granit Xhaka, while the likes of Robin Roefs, Nordi Mukiele, and Omar Alderete have all impressed since arriving at the Stadium of Light. But, there’s always room for improvement.

With regards to what exactly the Black Cats are looking for next, Bailey added: “Now Sunderland do not want to get caught out, they are on the lookout in all areas but I am told it is quality they want now. I believe a new striker is very much on their radar. They are going to back Le Bris, they fully believe in him.”

Regis Le Bris Manager of Sunderland portrait before the Premier League match between Sunderland and West Ham United at Stadium of Light.
Photo by Ed Sykes/Sportsphoto/Allstar Via Getty Images

Wilson Isidor leads the way for Sunderland strikers this season

Sunderland’s unbelievable start to the season has been underpinned largely by new signings hitting the ground running. However, it is Wilson Isidor, last season’s top scorer, who has been providing the goals the Wearside outfit need.

The Frenchman now has four goals to his name after bagging against Chelsea this weekend. Indeed, the way Isidor has stepped up is indicative of the way Sunderland have risen to meet the challenge of Premier League football.

With 12 goals in the second tier last term, and another four now, Isidor is leading the line admirably. However, the fact that no other Sunderland player is close to that suggests finding another forward would be a wise move.

Le Bris wants Sunderland to have squad depth to compete on all fronts, much like Chelsea do. Now, it’s down to the board to deliver that for him and lay the foundations for long-term success.