Sunderland have left the door open to a late Chemsdine Talbi exit after omitting the winger from their Europa League squad, a decision that looks closely tied to ongoing transfer discussions. As first reported by talkSPORT, the 21-year-old is in talks with Al-Ittihad, while Galatasaray and Fenerbahce are also showing interest before their respective windows close.
It is a development that carries weight. Talbi only joined Sunderland from Club Brugges for £18 million last summer and, despite flashes of promise, his first year on Wearside brought an uneven role. He was used only sporadically and was among the substitutes in the 1-0 win over Fulham last weekend. Now, with the Premier League window shut but Saudi Arabia and Turkey still active, Sunderland are dealing with a situation that remains live.
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Europa League squad omission fuels transfer expectation
The Europa League squad list offered the clearest indication yet that Talbi’s future is under discussion. Sunderland named Robin Roefs and Simon Moore as goalkeepers, with defenders Omar Alderete, Dan Ballard, Kevin Danso, Trai Hume, Reinildo, Dayann Méthalie, Thomas Meunier, Nordi Mukiele and Luke O’Nien included. Midfielders Jules Ahoka, Habib Diarra, Enzo Le Fee, Chris Rigg, Noah Sadiki and Granit Xhaka also made the cut, alongside forwards Nilson Angulo, Brian Brobbey, Malick Fofana, Wilson Isidor and Romaine Mundle.
Talbi cannot be added via List B because, while he is age-eligible, he has not been at the club for the required two-year period. In practical terms, that leaves him outside Sunderland’s immediate European plans and naturally intensifies scrutiny around a potential sale or loan.
Regis Le Bris outlines Sunderland stance
Regis Le Bris addressed the matter directly and his remarks were measured, while also confirming the possibility of movement. The Sunderland head coach said, “A move remains possible so it’s important to respect both parties. We’ll see.” He…
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