In and outgoings are expected on Wearside, whether they are loan or permanent deals, while the club will also have to weigh up upcoming contract decisions.
The Black Cats are still in negotiations with Ross Stewart about the striker’s situation, while several players have less than 12 months left on their deals.
Here is when every Sunderland player’s contract is set to expire – with some quickly approaching:
1. Elliot Embleton - Summer of 2025
Embleton signed for Derby on loan last year but suffered another serious injury setback. After returning to Sunderland, the midfielder then injured his ankle and missed the end of the 2024/25 campaign. It's hoped he'll be able to return for pre-season. Photo: Frank Reid
2. Niall Huggins - Summer of 2025
After getting back into Sunderland's starting XI, the 23-year-old full-back suffered another serious injury just before Christmas and is set to be sidelined for the rest of this year. Photo: Frank Reid
3. Alex Bass - Summer of 2025
Bass signed a three-year deal, with a club option of an additional year, when he joined Sunderland from Portsmouth in 2022. The 25-year-old joined League Two side AFC Wimbledon on loan last summer and is set to return to Wearside. Photo: Frank Reid
4. Chris Rigg - Summer of 2025
Rigg, 16, signed a two-year scholarship contract on Wearside last year, yet FA rules mean he can’t sign a professional deal until after his 17th birthday on June 18. There has been interest from several top-flight clubs, with Sunderland hopeful they can persuade the teenager to stay. Photo: Frank Reid