Duje Caleta-Car, Lyanco. (REUTERS/Hannah Mckay)
Sunderland secured their long-awaited return to the Premier League after an eight-year absence by defeating Sheffield United in the playoff final. But if last season is anything to go by—with Southampton, Ipswich Town, and Leicester City all relegated—survival is far from guaranteed.
Head coach Regis Le Bris will need his side firing on all cylinders while also reinforcing the squad, especially after losing star midfielder Jobe Bellingham to Borussia Dortmund. The young Englishman appears to be following in the footsteps of his older brother Jude.
Fortunately for Sunderland fans, the club has wasted no time in getting to work.
They have already completed the permanent signing of midfielder Enzo Le Fée from Roma. The Frenchman, one of their standout performers from last season, returns as a key figure in Le Bris’ project. Reports suggest the club is also actively working on deals for Cameron Carter-Vickers, Japhet Tanganga, and Strasbourg midfielder Habib Diarra.
Perhaps the most surprising rumour is a potential move for Liverpool defender Joe Gomez, who is set to become a free agent at the end of the month. Sunderland are reportedly among the clubs considering an approach for the experienced England international.
Sunderland Want Duje Ćaleta‑Car
Another name strongly linked with a move to the Stadium of Light is Croatian centre-back Duje Ćaleta‑Car.
The Croatia international made 13 Premier League appearances for Southampton during the 2022/23 campaign and currently plays for Lyon, where he has made 57 appearances over the past two seasons. With Lyon looking to balance their books, the 28-year-old is expected to be available this summer.
According to Chronicle Live, Regis Le Bris, who is well-acquainted with the French football market, is keen on bringing Ćaleta‑Car to Sunderland. Turkish clubs are also reportedly interested, but Sunderland hope to move quickly to secure a deal.
Upon joining Southampton in 2022, former Saints manager Ralph Hasenhüttl spoke highly of Ćaleta‑Car’s abilities.
“Duje is already a very established and experienced player, who has done an impressive job at his previous clubs,” he said. “He is a big presence on the pitch and he will bring even more quality into our centre-back group. It is important we have good depth and options in this position, and he gives us another very strong one.”
Though his time in England was short-lived, his performances in France have reminded many of his top-level potential. His role in helping Lyon qualify for European competition last season has only strengthened his case as a reliable option in defence.
Sunderland’s intent is clear. With big names being linked and deals already underway, Le Bris is building a squad he believes can not only survive but thrive in the Premier League.
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