The Black Cats have had some shockers over the years in the transfer market.
Every club can have a nightmare in terms of incomings but it seems to have happened at Sunderland more often than not over the years.
Sunderland now seems to have changed tact with sporting director Kristjaan Speakman taking the club in a new direction, with the club focusing on younger players.
The strategy eventually worked in League One as Alex Neil masterminded Sunderland’s return to the Championship before Tony Mowbray stabilised Sunderland as a second-tier club last season.
Here, though, we take a look at some of Sunderland’s worst signings from years gone by:
The strategy eventually worked in League One as Alex Neil masterminded Sunderland’s return to the Championship before Tony Mowbray stabilised Sunderland as a second-tier club last season.
5. Steve Harper
Steve Harper was brought in as third choice but the ex-Newcastle United man wasn't exactly a popular addition and failed to play a game for the club. It was just a bit pointless, wasn't it? Photo: Gareth Copley
The less said the better. Arguably the worst goalkeeper in the club's history. Again, another Martin Bain signing. I sense a theme emerging here. Photo: Lynne Cameron
Greg Halford signed a four-year contract with Sunderland when they were in the Premier League. The fee was variously reported as £2.5 m rising to £3m. But Greg Halford was largely forgettable in red and white. Photo: Hamish Blair