All of the key Sunderland AFC transfer links rated ahead of their Championship return
Sunderland fans are eagerly waiting to see who the club might recruit this summer as they prepare for their long-awaited return to the Championship.
By Phil Smith
Published 18th Jun 2022, 09:11 BST
Updated 18th Jun 2022, 09:40 BST
They’re also equally eager to see if the club can stand firm in the face of what is sure to be significant interest in some of their key assets, with striker Ross Stewart’s future quickly emerging as one of the summer’s main storylines.
It will be a busy summer, too, with loanees returning to their parent clubs and leaving a number of gaps that will need to be filled well.
The Black Cats are yet to make a signing for their senior squad, with players returning for pre-season training next Wednesday.
So who has been linked with making a switch to or from Wearside, what does it tell us about the club’s plans and just how likely are they to happen?
We run you through all the key links and assess them here..
The Black Cats are yet to make a signing for their senior squad, with players returning for pre-season training next Wednesday.
9. CAMERON ARCHER
Archer had a good loan at Preston North End last season and is a highly-rated player. The issue for Sunderland is that competition for his signature will be intense and in many cases, coming from teams expected to challenge for automatic promotion next season. Aston Villa have also made clear that they will look at him closely during pre-season before making any decision later in the summer. VERDICT: A very credible target, but one on which an awful lot would have fall into place for Sunderland. Photo: Lewis Storey
That there is interest in Stewart, not just from Rangers but from a long list from English clubs, is undeniable. Sunderland have the upper hand, though, because of a clause which allows them to automatically extend his current deal for another year. Their intention now, though, is to reward his excellent progress with a new long-term deal. VERDICT: Sunderland’s resolve will likely be tested but for now they are in a good position to stand firm. Photo: Ian Horrocks