With Sunderland having released seven players following the conclusion of the 2020/21 season, it promises to be a very busy summer at the Stadium of Light.
Plenty of incomings are expected, while there could yet be some further outgoings too.
Johnson’s immediate focus will no doubt be on attracting new signings though, with the Black Cats notably short in some key areas of the pitch.
Both full-back areas are in need of some new recruits, while the centre of midfield is also lacking some depth.
So which players could Sunderland target as they begin their summer rebuild?
We take a look at 11 of the names already linked with moves to Wearside who could be top of Johnson’s wanted list ahead of the club’s fourth season in League One.
1. Paul Digby
Digby, currently of Cambridge United, is well-known to Johnson with the duo having worked together at Barnsley. The midfielder is out of contract this summer and is reportedly attracting from a number of League One sides. Photo: Jan Kruger
2. Ross McCrorie
The former Portsmouth and Rangers midfielder is reportedly being eyed by the Black Cats - but it could take a £1million fee to prise McCrorie away from Aberdeen this summer. Photo: Mark Runnacles
3. Guy Melamed
The St Johnstone striker recently said he was 'flattered' by reported interest in his services from Sunderland and Ipswich Town, but the Scottish side are keen to tie down Melamed to a new deal after an impressive debut season. Photo: Willie Vass
4. Gwion Edwards
Edwards was one of the earliest players linked with Sunderland ahead of the summer window, and is currently mulling over a new deal at Ipswich Town - amid rumoured interest from Championship side Preston. Photo: Lewis Storey