Regis Le Bris gives Abdul Fatawu to Sunderland update as Leicester City receive £28m bid

Transfer Talk Dominates as Leicester City Prepare for Charlton Clash

With growing interest in Bilal El Khannouss, Kieran McAteer, and Abdul Fatawu—Sunderland reportedly submitted a £28 million bid for Fatawu this week—it’s no surprise that Marti Cifuentes’ press conference was largely centered around transfers.

As Leicester gear up to face Charlton Athletic for the first time since 2014, Cifuentes would have preferred to focus on match preparations rather than off-field distractions.

Still reeling from a surprise defeat to Preston North End, the former QPR manager is keen to get his side back on track. However, ongoing speculation around the futures of El Khannouss, McAteer, and Fatawu is proving to be an unwelcome distraction for both Cifuentes and the Foxes.

El Khannouss is widely expected to join Crystal Palace as a potential replacement for the Arsenal-bound Eberechi Eze. Meanwhile, Ipswich Town have reportedly joined the race for McAteer, and Sunderland—riding the momentum of their Premier League return—have tabled a substantial offer for Fatawu.

Cifuentes acknowledged that the final stretch of the transfer window will bring even more speculation, a sentiment shared by Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris, who is no stranger to the unpredictability of deadline week.

Sunderland made a strong statement on their Premier League return, dismantling West Ham United 3-0. New midfield trio Granit Xhaka, Noah Sadiki, and Habib Diarra impressed with a dominant performance that hinted at more than just survival in the top flight.

Speaking after the match, Le Bris addressed the club’s reported interest in Fatawu and Bologna centre-back Jhon Lucumi. While not confirming specific targets, he admitted Sunderland remain active in the market.

“We’re still looking to strengthen, but only if the right player fits the squad’s balance,” said Le Bris, following the arrival of Nordi Mukiele from PSG—Sunderland’s 12th signing this summer, pushing their total spend past £140 million.

“It’s still possible to reinforce the defense if we find the right profile. If not, we’ll work with what we have. There’s a lot of speculation, which can be a positive thing for everyone.”

For Leicester, however, the potential departure of key players doesn’t feel quite so positive.

Reiterating his stance on the Fatawu offer, Le Bris added: “If a move makes sense, we’ll pursue it. But it depends not only on us—it also depends on the club and the player. We’ll see what happens. The last week can get chaotic, but we’re working as a unit. If someone loses their head, the others are there to keep it calm.”

Cifuentes, meanwhile, acknowledged that further moves are possible as both Crystal Palace and Ipswich eye Leicester players. Sources recently informed EFL Analysis that Everton, under David Moyes, are also monitoring Fatawu.

Elsewhere, James Justin has emerged as a target for Leeds United, while Valencia are reportedly interested in Patson Daka and Harry Winks.

“There are still ten days to go, and I expect plenty of speculation,” Cifuentes said.

“If someone leaves and it’s the right decision for the club’s future, we’ll move forward and bring in a replacement who can help us improve. Right now, it’s all just speculation, which is typical at this point in the window.”