SUNDERLAND remain interested in Alexandre Mendy despite the arrival of Wilson Isidor and the push to sign Roko Simic.

Isidor completed his switch to the Stadium of Light on Friday morning, with the 23-year-old joining on an initial loan deal which includes an option to make the move permanent next summer.

The Zenit Saint Petersburg attacker is comfortable playing as a striker or across the forward line, with head coach Regis Le Bris delighted with the capture of a player he knows well.

But the Black Cats want to further strengthen their forward line and talks are continuing with Red Bull Salzburg's Simic. And Sunderland haven't given up on Mendy, despite the frustrating pursuit of the 30-year-old.

Caen's takeover earlier this summer has complicated matters and Sunderland are understood to have made what they believe is a strong offer for the striker. Dialogue between the clubs is ongoing and Mendy yet again reiterated his desire to join the Black Cats this week.

He said: “It’s clear to me and to everyone that I want to go to Sunderland, the new management must respect the commitments made by the institution to me.

"If I train today, it is to be ready to start this new challenge with Sunderland."

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Isidor isn't expected to feature against Burnley on Saturday but Sunderland are delighted with the capture of the former Monaco youngster.

Sporting director Kristjaan Speakman said: "Wilson's a mobile and athletic forward, who possesses senior experience and a healthy goalscoring record at the top level.

"We feel he's a good fit with our playing identity and he has the attributes to help the team in forward areas. He's excited to be here and we look forward to helping him settle in."

Head coach Regis Le Bris added: “Wilson is a versatile attacker who has the ability to play in many different positions.

“He is very good at running in behind as well as combining the play, so for us he will be very useful.

“I come from the same region of France as him, so we know each other even though I haven’t coached him before.

“I had the opportunity to work with him last season at Lorient, but in the end it wasn’t possible, so it’s nice to be working with him now at Sunderland.

“At the moment we have some good options, but Wilson’s profile is different, and he will be a good addition to the group.”

Isidor spent last season on loan with Zenit and featured 21 times, winning the Russian Premier League, Russian Cup, and Russian Super Cup.

He made that deal permanent in the summer and has started the Russian season with two goals in five substitute appearances, but made it clear he wanted the Sunderland move when he learnt of the interest from Wearside.

He said: "I’m so happy to be here and sign for Sunderland. It is an amazing club with a huge fanbase – and when a club like that wants you, it feels amazing. I didn’t hesitate. It was a natural decision.

"I always knew Sunderland was a big club, so I can’t wait to get started and to see the Stadium of Light full. Hopefully, I can get the fans chanting my name.”