There are also some transfer sagas that have dragged on over large portions of time whilst some links just wouldn't go away despite little interest from either side.
From Gazza and David Beckham to Jan Koller and Nathan Broadhead, we take a look at the Sunderland rumours, transfer sagas, near misses and forgotten targets that didn't end up happening for whatever reason.
37. Nathan Broadhead
The former loanee was close to signing for Sunderland but instead chose a loan move to Wigan Athletic. The striker is now at Ipswich Town. Photo: Michael Steele
38. David Nugent
Sunderland were heavily linked with the striker under Roy Keane and throughout the England international's career but a move to the Stadium of Light never materialised Photo: Nathan Stirk
39. Moussa Sow
Sunderland were said to be edging closer to completing a move for forward Moussa Sow in 2015. But, for whatever reason, the transfer didn't come off Photo: OZAN KOSE
40. Kieffer Moore
Despite interest from Sunderland in January, the Welsh international joined Ipswich on loan, where he scored seven goals in 18 Championship appearances. The Tractor Boys will therefore have a good chance to sign the 31-year-old permanently if they opt to pursue a move. Photo: George Wood