Sunderland are already being linked with a number of potential summer moves as Régis Le Bris looks to build on an impressive campaign in the Premier League.
The Black Cats comfortably exceeded expectations following promotion and spent much of the season competing in the top half of the table, capping that off with a fairytale qualification for the Europa League on the final day.
Sunderland are now back in Europe for the first time since 1973, ending a 52-year wait to compete on the continent, and as a result, Le Bris will need to be backed this summer.
Attention has now shifted towards strengthening the squad for 2026/27, with several players attracting interest from elsewhere and Sunderland exploring experienced additions of their own.
Over the last 24 hours, reports have suggested that goalkeeper Anthony Patterson and midfielder Dan Neil are set to leave alongside left-back Dennis Cirkin.
Sunderland have already held talks to sign a better striker than Brobbey
Sunderland have been linked with an interest in a striker who would be even better than Brian Brobbey.
Meanwhile, other media sources claim that Sunderland are assessing a number of options across Europe as they prepare for another ambitious transfer window.
One name who has been attracting significant attention is Marseille midfielder Geoffrey Kondogbia.
Sunderland make attractive salary offer to Geoffrey Kondogbia
According to a report from Media Foot, Sunderland are firm favourites to sign the 33-year-old this summer.
The report claims Le Bris’ side are exploring a deal that could see Kondogbia move to the Stadium of Light as Marseille look to reduce their wage bill.
After emerging at Lens, he went on to play for Sevilla, Monaco, Inter, Valencia and Atlético before joining Marseille in 2023.
Across his career, Kondogbia has competed in the Champions League, Europa League and La Liga title races, building a reputation as a powerful defensive midfielder capable of controlling games physically and tactically.
Although his role at Marseille has evolved in recent seasons, Kondogbia remains highly regarded within the French club.
Under Roberto De Zerbi, he was often used in deeper defensive positions rather than his traditional midfield role. The Spurs coach regularly praised his intelligence, leadership and ability to adapt to different tactical demands.
Media Foot claim that Sunderland are offering Kondogbia an ‘attractive’ salary of around £95,000-per-week to join them,
For Sunderland, the appeal is obvious.
Le Bris has built a young and energetic squad, but adding an experienced figure with Kondogbia’s pedigree could provide valuable leadership both on and off the pitch.
The Central African Republic international has played at the highest level for more than a decade and would bring significant know-how to a relatively youthful dressing room.
Kondogbia was held in very high regard by De Zerbi, with the Italian delivering a glowing assessment of the midfielder two years ago.
“Kondogbia is one of the most beautiful things I’ve seen in Marseille,” De Zerbi stated in a 2024 press conference.
“I like to change my mind. Sometimes, we coaches start with ideas and we don’t move on. I didn’t count on him initially, then I spoke to him over the phone and I had positive feelings.
“I had him train with us at the beginning. When I saw his quality, his desire to bounce back after a difficult season, I was very happy with him.
“He’s an exceptional lad, and a very strong player.”
Those comments underline why clubs continue to monitor Kondogbia despite him entering the latter stages of his career.
After another encouraging season under Le Bris, the club’s willingness to consider a player with Kondogbia’s experience demonstrates the growing ambition around the Stadium of Light as preparations begin for the new campaign.
Player ready to leave Aston Villa to join Leeds or Sunderland on one condition
A potential blow for the Villans…