Sunderland linked with double transfer deal as Kristjaan Speakman targets Rangers and Lorient starlets…

Sunderland is reportedly pursuing a dual transfer deal as Kristjaan Speakman sets his sights on young talents from Rangers and Lorient.

The Black Cats have been linked with potential signings of Lorient midfielder Arthur Avom and Rangers prospect Bailey Rice ahead of the upcoming January transfer window.

Sunderland has garnered attention for its interest in two promising players as the January transfer window approaches, with international reports suggesting that the club is keeping an eye on Lorient’s Arthur Avom and Rangers’ Bailey Rice.

The 21-year-old Cameroonian international Avom has caught the eye of clubs across Europe after becoming a pivotal player for Lorient. Although he is contracted until June 2026, Africafoot indicates that the French club has not activated their option to extend his contract and may consider selling him this winter to prevent a loss on his value in the future.

According to the report, Lorient is willing to entertain offers in January to improve their financial situation, with Strasbourg, West Ham, and Sunderland all mentioned as potential suitors. Avom has been a consistent presence in Ligue 1 this season, being labeled as an “undisputed starter,” and several clubs are closely monitoring his situation.

In addition, Football Insider has reported that Sunderland is among the clubs interested in the highly-rated Rangers midfielder Bailey Rice.

Aston Villa is also reportedly in the mix, with scouts from both teams observing the 19-year-old for a potential future in the Premier League.

Rice’s contract expires in the summer, and Rangers are thought to be amenable to a January transfer to alleviate financial strain and avoid losing him for nothing.

As Sunderland continues its strategy of targeting emerging talents with significant potential, both Avom and Rice align with their current recruitment strategy. However, there have been no formal offers made at this time.

Régis Le Bris provides an injury update

Régis Le Bris has announced that Sunderland midfielder Habib Diarra is likely to miss the upcoming Wear-Tyne derby, as the head coach acknowledges that the match against Newcastle United will probably come too soon for the 21-year-old.

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Diarra has been intensifying his recovery following groin surgery earlier this season and was racing to be fit in time for the derby.

Although his recovery has been progressing well, Le Bris feels that the timing is not in his favor. However, the French coach did provide some positive news, indicating that Reinildo is anticipated to return after missing the 3-0 loss to Manchester City due to a groin problem.

“For Rei, it could be okay but for Habib, it would be too short, I think,” Le Bris commented.

Sunderland will also have Granit Xhaka and Noah Sadiki available for the derby, as both managed to avoid a booking at the Etihad. Le Bris opted to substitute the duo late in the game to safeguard them for Sunday’s match, bringing on Romaine Mundle and Simon Adingra instead.

Le Bris later clarified that his choice not to bring on Dan Neil was to maintain attacking momentum, with Lutsharel Geertruida moved into midfield.

“Yes, because we tried to stay in the game, to provoke something,” he explained. “I think with offensive players on the side, it was more or less the idea. It didn’t work, but we tried.”