Sunderland

As Habib Diarra and Reinildo grow, Sunderland has now stepped up his pursuit of 11-goal striker by submitting an opening offer.

Sunderland can sign after Diyala and Renildo

Both Diarra and Reinildo stand out because of the impressive signing of the promotion side, the former should leave their mark on Wearside next season. But Black Cat still has work to do. Keeping the Premier League position will be a very difficult task – just ask about the last six aspects of trying to do so – further investment will be key.

Even after paying the club record fee for Dirra, the Black Cats reportedly turned their attention to signing the likes of Abdoulaye Doucoure, although this would be at a bargain at a cheap price due to his current free agent status.

The Frenchman left Everton at the end of last season and now has a chance to stay in Sunderland’s Premier League. This is a transaction that is also effective for both parties. Doucoure’s experience will be priceless, namely Dirra and the players themselves, still outstanding enough for England’s top pilots.

He isn’t the only name on Sunderland’s wish list, though. Those at the Stadium of Light also reportedly turned their attention to Hamed Traore in Bournemouth. Like Dirra, the attackers landed the Ligue 1 last season next season and can now move permanently from the Cherries, whether it is due to Sunderland this summer or another club.

Ligue 1 also appears to be home to Regis Le Bris’ side, after reports that they now offer an opening advantage to sign the impressive striker from France’s top tier.

Sunderland submits opening offer to sign Abline

According to Foot Mercato, Sunderland has now submitted an opening ceremony worth 20 million euros (£17 million) and signed Matthis Abline from FC Nantes this summer. Earlier this summer, Black Cat had contacted the French side and has now taken the first step in pursuing his signature.

Their £17 million offer is enough to complete, and that’s the question that Sunderland may be able to answer soon. Nantes has told Marseille that they will sell the star striker for only €50 million (£43 million) in the coming months, but whether clubs outside France have to pay such premium fees remains to be seen.

Analyst Ben Mattinson, described as a “fast” and “direct” “instinct ender”, has scored 11 goals in all matches in Nantes last season and now has the chance to repeat the record in the Premier League when August arrives.