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Sunderland & Brentford battling for West Ham United defender - reports The latest Sunderland AFC transfer news. Sunderland - who have only made one signing so far this summer - are still on the lookout for further defensive recruits ahead of the transfer window closing. And the latest name linked is West Ham United‘s El Hadji Malick Diouf, with interest from Premier League rivals Brentford also well established amid reports they had a bid knocked back last month. He has been valued between £40m and £50m according to reports. Sport Witness and DS Sport in Senegal claim both clubs are keen on the Hammers defender, the 21-year-old left-back has made more than 30 appearances for West Ham - relegated from the Premier League last term - since joining from Slavia Prague. Sport Witness report: “Sunderland have joined Brentford in the race to sign West Ham United‘s El Hadji Malick Diouf this summer. “The Senegal international joined West Ham from Slavia Prague in July 2025 and made 35 appearances in his debut season. He’s on the move again following the Hammers’ relegation to the Championship.” There has also previously been reported interest from Porto. Sunderland, meanwhile, are busy revamping their squad. Leo Hjelde’s departure on Tuesday night continues Florent Ghisolfi’s drive to trim the squad and wage bill ahead of the new campaign, with Anthony Patterson completing a bumper move to Wrexham and Arthur Masuaku joining Konyaspor. Abdoullah Ba is also close to joining League One side Peterborough United. The Echo has launched a new WhatsApp SAFC Channel to bring the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates direct to your phone. Simply click this link to join our SAFC WhatsApp channel. Régis Le Bris says he is confident that Sunderland will add to their squad Speaking after the weekend win over RC Lens, Le Bris said: "Thomas [Meunier] was excellent today, like he was with us for two seasons. It was really good, a good connection. One signing but a good signing, so great! I think today, and probably in the USA as well, we showed that our squad is already well connected with good players, and probably the first good recruitment is to keep your strength. "I think at the minute that's done which is really good, and we'll add two, three, four... we'll see. The transfer window is still unpredictable, but we are working behind the scenes to strengthen the squad. It's a little different compared to last season, we have to be really precise, and when you are looking for someone, a specific profile, it's much harder. It's important to [remember that you can] sign new players, but it doesn't mean that we'll be stronger," Le Bris added. "It's about our culture, the way we are growing together, and I think we showed in America and even more today that the team is strong. Obviously the Premier League is really demanding, really challenging, but it's a new step forward." Your next Sunderland read: Anthony Patterson reveals the impact ex-Sunderland boss Phil Parkinson had on his move to Wrexham