Sunderland have made a strong return to Premier League life, and it appears their recruitment team is wasting no time in planning ahead — with reports suggesting a January contract offer has already been submitted for one of their top defensive targets.

Le Bris delivers positive injury news ahead of Wolves clash

Ahead of a vital home meeting with Wolverhampton Wanderers, Sunderland manager Régis Le Bris provided encouraging updates on two key players as his side looks to bounce back from their defeat to Manchester United before the international break.

Speaking to the press, Le Bris confirmed that both Noah Sadiki and Omar Alderete could feature this weekend. “Noah was assessed yesterday and everything looks good so far. We’ll monitor him in the next couple of sessions, but we’re optimistic,” he said. “As for Omar, he’s just come back from a long trip, but our early conversations were positive. We’ll make a final call after training. Everyone else has returned in good condition.”

The French coach also praised upcoming opponents Wolves, who are still searching for their first league victory of the season. “They’ve had a tough start, but in the last two matches, they’ve shown real quality and could have easily won both,” Le Bris said. “They have good players, a clear structure, and a lot of energy. That’s what this league is — small details can punish you if you’re not sharp. We’ll need to be clinical and make sure we take our chances.”

A win at the Stadium of Light could see the Black Cats rise as high as fourth, underscoring how tight the Premier League table remains in the early stages.

Sunderland step up Lucumí pursuit with major offer

Off the pitch, Sunderland’s ambition is just as evident. According to Corriere di Bologna (via Sport Witness), the club have offered a lucrative contract worth around €3 million (£2.6 million) per season to Bologna defender Jhon Lucumí as they look to finally bring the Colombian to Wearside.

A €30 million (£26 million) transfer bid also remains active, with Sunderland eager to strike a deal once the January window opens. Lucumí’s agent is said to be pushing for a Premier League move, and Sunderland appear to be leading the race after months of persistence.

The 26-year-old centre-back, who has been hailed as “ridiculously impressive” and “composed” by analyst Ben Mattinson, was a top target for Sunderland during the summer but Bologna refused to sell. Now, with a firm offer on the table and the player reportedly open to the switch, the Black Cats could finally land their man when the new year arrives.