Sunderland are close to signing a Championship experienced midfielder who is willing to join.
Regis Le Bris’ start to his Sunderland tenure has been bright, despite having to follow up the unsuccessful spells of both Michael Beale and Mike Dodds who both contributed to leave Sunderland in a lowly 16th position at the end of the 2023/24 Championship season.
Optimism was low around the Stadium of Light ahead of the new campaign, however the clarity surrounding Jobe Bellingham’s future and his desire to stay at the club has lifted spirits.
Sunderland are now continuing their pursuit for Championship experience to add to their young ranks, with it being reported that a former Championship midfielder is wanting to join Le Bris’ side and has agreed to ‘take a pay cut to join’.
- READ MORE: How latest Jobe Bellingham transfer news will now affect Regis Le Bris’ Sunderland squad plans
Alan Browne ‘incredibly keen’ on move as Sunderland pull out of Norwood deal
Alan Browne is reportedly ‘incredibly keen’ on a move up north to Wearside, so much so that he is ‘willing to take a pay cut’, per Michael Graham on X.
The Black Cats are now ‘very confident’ in striking a deal for the midfielder that they have now ‘pulled back’ on signing former Sheffield United midfielder Oliver Norwood after his release from Bramall Lane following their relegation from the Premier League in the 2023/24 campaign.
Browne will be brought into the Stadium of Light with the need of Championship experience ahead of the new season.
Browne has tallied 346 Championship appearances during his 10+ years with Preston North End, bagging 39 goals and assisting 22 in that time.
- READ MORE: Regis Le Bris issues plea to Sunderland board over ‘super talent’ who’s ‘important’ to his plans
Sunderland are on the way to ticking every box this transfer window
The importance of Sunderland getting Championship experience through the door could not be emphasised enough, especially after the disastrous second half to the 2023/24 Championship season.
Sunderland attaining the services of Browne is perfect in adding necessary experience, not just from the amount of games played, but the number of games he has taken the captaincy with Preston North End.
Sunderland defender Luke O’Nien is a more than efficient to be captain, however Browne will certainly be able to provide more help to the 29-year-old in having more leaders dotted across the pitch.
Each day that goes by, the Black Cats look more likely to hold on to their key talents within the squad. If Sunderland manage to bring in a Championship experienced striker on top of all this, they will be very well set-up prior to the new campaign, giving French boss Le Bris the best chances of success during his time with the Black Cats.