Sunderland have started making plans ahead of the summer transfer window, and they are now keen on signing an "exceptional" player from a top European club.

Regis Le Bris could be forced into summer rebuild

Regis Le Bris could hardly have dreamed of a better debut campaign upon his side's return to the Premier League, and there is still an opportunity to finish in the European places, should they defeat Chelsea at the Stadium of Light on Sunday.

As such, it is no real surprise that some of their key players have started attracting attention, including Enzo Le Fee, with Aston Villa plotting a move for the Frenchman, and the Black Cats are said to be willing to cash-in for the right price.

Villa are set to be playing in the Champions League next season, alongside Manchester United, who have been sniffing around to sign fellow midfielder Noah Sadiki, while clubs from the Saudi Pro League have been credited with an interest in captain Granit Xhaka.

Of course, Le Bris won't want to lose all three midfielders in the summer, but should the board decide to cash-in on one, a replacement will be needed, and a new target has now been identified.

Sunderland keen on signing "technically gifted" midfielder

According to a report from Media Foot (via Sport Witness), Sunderland are now eyeing a move for Geoffrey Kondogbia, who is set to leave Marseille this summer, three years after arriving from Atletico Madrid for around €8m (£7m).

Indeed, the former Champions League winners are planning to get rid of the 33-year-old at the end of the season, given his high salary, which the way for a move to the Stadium of Light, and there are signs he could be a savvy signing.

Kondogbia's age may be a slight concern, but he's slightly younger than Xhaka, and the former Atletico man has a wealth of experience at the highest level, making 34 appearances in the Champions League.

Ex-Marseille manager Roberto De Zerbi is also a massive fan of the 21-time Central African Republic international, saying last season: "Kondogbia is one of the best things I've seen in Marseille.

"When I saw his quality, his desire to bounce back after a disappointing season, I was very pleased with him. He's an exceptional lad, a very strong player.

Akin to Xhaka, the Marseille midfielder has predominantly featured in a defensive midfield role throughout his career to date, which suggests he could be a like-for-like replacement for the 33-year-old.

However, Sunderland's number one priority should be to keep hold of the Swiss midfielder, who was recently awarded the Player of the Season award, off the back of making 33 Premier League appearances and playing a major role in Le Bris' side avoiding the drop.

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