But what about those loan signings that didn’t go as planned?
There have been plenty of misses in the loan market over the years, and here we round-up some of the more forgettable names to have joined the Black Cats on a temporary basis.
How many can you remember, and have we missed anyone out? Let us know on Twitter, @sunechosafc!:
1. ALAN QUINN
Best known for his spells on both sides of the Sheffield divide - where he holds the record as the only player to score on both sides of the Steel City Derby - Quinn teamed-up with the Black Cats in 2003 on a short-term loan deal. The midfielder failed to deliver though, and failed to muster a goal in his six appearances for the club. Photo: Frank Reid
2. IAN SNODIN
The Yorkshire-born midfielder enjoyed a fine career in the professional game, turning out for Leeds United, Doncaster Rovers and Everton among others. But his 1994 loan move to Roker Park, which culminated in just six appearances, is far more forgettable. Photo: Getty Images
3. PATRICE CARTERON
Now manager of Egyptian giants Zamalek, Carteron was a defender during his playing days and spent a brief spell with Sunderland in 2001. The right back scored once in eight appearances on Wearside. Photo: Ross Kinnaird
4. TALAL EL-KARKOURI
Better known for his time with Charlton Athletic, El-Karkouri joined Sunderland on loan from PSG in 2003. The Moroccan international made just eight appearances at the Stadium of Light. Photo: Gary M. Prior