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Régis Le Bris reportedly makes Sunderland transfer demand to Kristjaan Speakman ahead of January window
Sunderland could be in store for a busy January. But they might be waiting on deals elsewhere to find out their fate.
Sunderland were active this summer, with Kristjaan Speakman managing to get nine new players through the doors at the Stadium of Light.
And with January fast-approaching, there’s more and more rumours regarding players who might be on their way out of Sunderland.
Goalkeeper Anthony Patterson is one being linked with a move away, with Manchester United said to be interested.
Elsewhere, Manchester United are also keen on Chris Rigg following his stunning start to the season under Regis Le Bris.
Rigg, 17, has now started the last eight Championship games for the Black Cats and has two goals to his name.
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Real Madrid are also keen on Rigg, with the likes of Borussia Dortmund mentioned earlier in the season as well.
But it’s the Galacticos who Sunderland may be keeping an eye on ahead of January.
Real Madrid eyeing £125m-rated Florian Wirtz
Ahead of January, there’s a lot of talks about Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Florian Wirtz.
He’s thought to be a long-term target for Real Madrid, with reports suggesting that German champions Leverkusen want £125million for the 21-year-old, who’s viewed as the heir at Luka Modric in Madrid.
However, it’s also been reported that Madrid view Rigg as a potential back-up signing should they be unable to land Wirtz.
Wirtz is also wanted by Manchester City, Bayern Munich, and Barcelona ahead of the January window.
Sunderland have been told to command £25million for Rigg, making him a much cheaper alternative to Wirtz for Madrid.
Sunderland owners may have one eye on Real Madrid in January
The Sunderland owners certainly have a very valuable first-team squad right now, and one that will only appreciate in value over the course of the season.
Rigg is under contract until 2027. It gives the club some wiggle room with regards to a potential sale, as they can hold out until their valuation is met, as was the case with Jack Clarke.
But if Madrid come in with big money then it could be hard to turn it down, regardless of whether Le Bris still has Sunderland in title contention come the New Year.
It would make for a huge windfall on a player who’s come through the academy. But Madrid want Wirtz.
