Sunderland are still looking to strengthen in several areas after completing the signing of centre-back Daniel Ballard from Arsenal.
The 22-year-old became the Black Cats’ second signing of the summer, with Leon Dajaku joining the club on a permanent deal after a clause in his loan move from Union Berlin was activated in the aftermath of promotion from League One.
We’ve picked out the 25 most eye-catching signings from the second tier so far.
Here are some of the early transfers that have been completed:
We’ve picked out the 25 most eye-catching signings from the second tier so far.
5. Harry Darling (MK Dons to Swansea)
The 22-year-old centre-back impressed at MK Dons during the 2021/22 campaign and earned a place in the League One team of the season. Darling has now linked up with former Dons boss Russell Martin at Swansea, for an undisclosed fee, and will suit the Swans' preferred style of play. Photo: Pete Norton
6. Luke McNally (Oxford to Burnley)
Another central defender who was impressive in League One last season and attracted plenty of interest. McNally, 22, only joined Oxford last summer from Irish side St Patrick's Athletic but was quickly recognised as one of the best centre-backs in the third tier, excelling in defensive duels while showing confidence in possession. Photo: Richard Heathcote
7. Cauley Woodrow (Barnsley to Luton)
While he was part of a Barnsley team that was relegated from the Championship last season, Woodrow missed a large part of the 2021/22 campaign through injury. The 27-year-old had scored 26 Championship goals over the past two seasons and will hope to rediscover his form after signing for Luton. Photo: George Wood
8. Daniel Ballard (Arsenal to Sunderland)
Ballard's move to Sunderland appears to tick a lot of boxes for the Black Cats. The 22-year-old will add more mobility and poise in possession at the back and is a young, emerging talent. He also has experience in the Championship after making 31 appearances while on loan at Millwall last season. Photo: Jacques Feeney