But that hasn’t stopped the League One transfer rumour mill from turning.
Sunderland and their third-tier rivals have until February 1 to conclude incomings and outgoings before the window slams shut.
The Black Cats have also have the new salary cap rules to navigate, meaning deals could be sparse.
New signing Carl Winchester remains Sunderland’s only incoming thus far, the midfielder started against Argyle at the Stadium of Light earlier in the week.
But there has been news from one of the Wearside club’s most recently departed players.
Former Sunderland defender Morgan Feeney has signed for League Two promotion hopefuls Carlisle United.
The Everton academy graduate joined the Black Cats on a half-season deal in the summer and made a handful of appearances at the start of the campaign, and netted in the 8-1 win over Aston Villa under-21s in the Papa John’s Trophy.
Sunderland, however, have been linked with a player this morning, whilst another former Wearsider looks set to join a League One club shortly.
As ever, we’re sharing the latest third-tier gossip from around the web – so scroll down and click through the pages to take a look:
1. Former Fleetwood man set for move
Stoke City full-back Tom Edwards is poised to join MLS outfit New York Red Bulls on loan after he was recalled from Fleetwood. The right-back had fallen down the pecking order under Michael O’Neill, with Tommy Smith the first choice for the club so far this season. (Various) Photo: Catherine Ivill
2. Gillingham midfielder set for exit
Gillingham’s young midfielder Henry Woods is again primed for a loan move away from Priestfield. Woods, 21, is recovering from injury but is expected to be sent out to get some game-time after the Gills recently strengthened their midfield department. (Kent Online) Photo: James Chance
3. Former Sunderland man on move
Shrewsbury Town are working on a deal for the permanent signing of former Luton Town's former Everton prospect Brendan Galloway. Indeed, the Srews seemed to have announced the signing early with an article on their site stating 'Brendan Galloway Joins Town' appearing then swiftly disappearing last night. (Various) Photo: Mark Runnacles
4. Swindon Town eye striker
Swindon Town are looking to complete a deal to sign a new striker over the next couple of days. Manager John Sheridan has provided a transfer update: “Hopefully, we’ll have a new striker in this week. We’re still working hard trying to get people, but players make their own decisions. We can only ask about them and try to get them to come and play for us, but they make the decisions with agents. It’s difficult but we will keep plugging away. We definitely need two strikers, in my eyes. It would provide competition for places, but just because I bring people in it doesn’t mean they will go straight into the team.” (Swindon Advertiser) Photo: Harry Trump