Sunderland winger Chemsdine Talbi is reportedly in talks with Saudi Pro League club Al Ittihad over a potential transfer. The Saudi league's transfer window remains open, allowing for the move to proceed.
Talbi, a 21-year-old Moroccan international, was not included in Sunderland's Europa League squad due to the ongoing discussions. He joined the English club from Club Brugge for a reported fee of £18 million last summer. Last season, he made 30 appearances for Sunderland and featured off the bench in the current campaign's opening match, a 2-1 loss to Ipswich.
Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris expressed satisfaction with the club's summer transfer activity, which saw six new additions. These signings were made in preparation for domestic and European competitions. Le Bris indicated that the club successfully addressed three key areas with their signings. The club also secured winger Malick Fofana from Lyon for £30 million on deadline day, fending off a challenge from Crystal Palace. Other arrivals include Kevin Danso and 18-year-old forward Juan Riquelme Angulo.
"We had this mantra at the beginning of the market – keep the core, add what we need. We kept this idea all the way," Le Bris stated regarding the transfer strategy. He noted the challenges of the market but expressed happiness with the outcome, having met three primary objectives: signing experienced players like Danso and Thomas Meunier, acquiring young talent with proven experience such as Malick Fofana and Dayann Methalie, and bringing in high-potential prospects like Juan Riquelme Angulo and Jules Ahoka.
Le Bris further elaborated on the roles of new signings, mentioning Angulo's suitability for the striker position, requiring patience and potential. He described Kevin Danso as a player who brings authority, physicality, and leadership to the center-back role, emphasizing the importance of his experience and composure. For Malick Fofana, Le Bris highlighted his effectiveness as a winger, noting his ability in one-on-one situations, commitment to defensive duties, and exciting profile.