Sunderland have already been linked with a number of potential summer signings as Régis Le Bris looks to build on an impressive Premier League campaign.
The Black Cats comfortably exceeded expectations following promotion and spent most of the season competing in the top half of the table, ending that by qualifying 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 such, Le Bris will need support this summer.
Attention has now shifted to strengthening the squad for 2026/27, with several players attracting interest from elsewhere and Sunderland exploring additions of their own.
In the past 24 hours, reports have suggested goalkeeper Anthony Patterson and midfielder Dan Neil will go with left-back Dennis Cirkin.
Sunderland are already in talks to sign a better striker than Brobbey
Sunderland have been linked with an interest in a striker who would be better than Brian Brobbey.
Meanwhile, other media sources claim that Sunderland are exploring a number of options across Europe as they prepare for another coveted transfer window.
One name that has been attracting significant attention is Marseille midfielder Geoffrey Kondogbia.
Sunderland make an attractive salary offer for Geoffrey Kondogbia
According to Media Foot, Sunderland are strong favorites to sign the 33-year-old this summer.
The report claims that Le Bris' side are looking at a deal that could see Kondogbia move to the Stadium of Light as Marseille look to reduce their debt.
After appearing at Lens, he went on to play for Sevilla, Monaco, Inter, Valencia and Atlético before joining Marseille in 2023.
Throughout his career, Kondogbia has competed in the Champions League, Europa League and La Liga titles, establishing himself as a powerful midfielder who can control games physically and tactically.
Although his role at Marseille has changed in recent seasons, Kondogbia is still held in high esteem at the French club.
Under Roberto De Zerbi, he was often used in deeper defensive positions instead of his traditional full-back role. The Spurs coach has always praised his intelligence, leadership and ability to adapt to different tactical needs.
Media Foot claim that Sunderland are offering Kondogbia an 'attractive' £95,000-a-week salary to join them,
For Sunderland, the appeal is obvious.
Le Bris has built a young and energetic squad, but adding someone with the experience of Kondogbia's pedigree could provide valuable leadership on and off the pitch.
The Central African Republic international has played at the highest level for over a decade and will bring valuable experience to the young dressing room.
Kondogbia was highly regarded by De Zerbi, with the Italian giving the midfielder a glowing review two years ago.
“Kondogbia is one of the best things I've seen in Marseille,De Zerbi said at the 2024 press conference.
“I like to change my mind. Sometimes, we coaches start with ideas and don't move on. I didn't trust him at first, then I talked to him on the phone and I had positive feelings.
“I trained him with us in the beginning. When I saw his quality, his desire to get up after a difficult season, I was very happy for him.
“He's a different guy, and he's a very strong player.”
Those comments underscore why clubs continue to monitor Kondogbia even as he enters the final stages of his career.
After another encouraging season under Le Bris, the club's willingness to consider a player of Kondogbia's experience reflects the growing interest around the Stadium of Light as preparations for the new campaign begin.
The player is ready to leave Aston Villa to join Leeds or Sunderland on one condition
A potential threat to the Villans…
