Régis Le Bris
Ian Poveda and Jay Matete’s participation with Sunderland’s under-21 squad in the National League Cup has sparked discussions regarding their future at the club. Despite being made available for transfer, their involvement suggests that immediate exits may not be forthcoming. Both players started in the match against Scunthorpe, indicating that their departures are not imminent.
Régis Le Bris said: “We’ll see for every player. I told them that the first two weeks are dedicated to connection. After that, we’ll have to be clear. Some of them need game time, but if it’s not possible for the squad in the Premier League, it’s not necessary to stay here. We’ll decide early.”
The comments from Sunderland’s head coach, Régis Le Bris, highlighted the club’s stance on players who are not in his immediate plans for the Premier League campaign. This list includes Poveda, Matete, and several others who have spent time on loan or on the fringes of the first team. Matete, for instance, spent the entire 2024–25 season on loan at Bolton Wanderers, while Poveda has had limited appearances since joining Sunderland a year ago.
Despite their availability for transfer, the duo’s current involvement with the under-21s suggests that Sunderland is still open to offers for both players before the transfer window closes. The club’s youth team, led by coach Graeme Murty, faced Scunthorpe in the National League Cup, with Poveda and Matete included in the starting XI.
In other news, Sunderland has strengthened its squad with the signing of Paraguay international Omar Alderete from Getafe. The central defender’s arrival, reportedly for a fee of around £10 million, aims to bolster the club’s defensive options ahead of their return to the Premier League. Alderete’s addition addresses the need for depth in central defence, a priority identified by Le Bris during the summer transfer window.
Le Bris commented: “He’s a player with extensive experience in European club football and at the international level. It was important for us to identify and add a left-sided centre back for the group, and ensure the profile was aligned to our game model. In Omar, we have an aggressive and athletic player who can move the ball efficiently in possession. He’s connected to our story and where we want to go, and naturally excited about the opportunity to play in the Premier League.”
Alderete’s signing represents a significant boost for Sunderland as they prepare for the Premier League season, with expectations for him to play a crucial role throughout the campaign. However, his readiness for the opening match against West Ham remains uncertain, given his limited pre-season action with Getafe.
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