Charlie Wyke, Josh Hawkes and Max Power latest as Joey Barton weakens Sunderland's rivals with signing

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Sunderland are once again preparing for a summer of change after failing to exit League One.

Lee Johnson’s men failed to overcome Lincoln City over two legs in the play-off semi-final and now face a fourth straight season in the third tier of English football.

Kyril Louis-Dreyfus, though, has confirmed that Johnson will remain on as head coach next campaign during a recent interview.

The Black Cats have also produced their retained list with Grant Leadbitter, Josh Scowen, Max Power and Callum McFadzean amongst others departing the club.

NORTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - APRIL 10: Bristol Rovers manager Joey Barton looks on prior to the Sky Bet League One match between Northampton Town and Bristol Rovers at PTS Academy Stadium on April 10, 2021 in Northampton, England. (Photo by Pete Norton/Getty Images)

Here, we take a look at the latest Sunderland transfer news and general talk from around League One:

Joey Barton makes signing from Sunderland’s League One rivals

Accrington Stanley’s long-serving defender Mark Hughes has agreed to join Joey Barton’s Bristol Rovers in League Two

The 34-year-old will leave the Crown Ground after 246 appearances across two spells.

Hughes said: "Today I say goodbye to a brilliant football club. I want to thank the club for how they have welcomed both me and my family the past five years.

“I would also thank the supporters for making me feel welcome from day one. The club will always have a place in my heart.

“I have made some great memories at the club. None more so than winning the league in 2017/2018. A night I will truly never forget.”

League One rivals show interest in Sunderland duo

Ipswich Town are understood to have shown interest in two Sunderland players.

Most notably the Wearside club’s leading scorer from the 2020/21 season Charlie Wyke and young attacker Josh Hawkes

That’s according to the East Anglian Daily Times who also state that the Tractor Boys also have an interest in former Sunderland captain Max Power.

Wyke is out of contract in the summer but has been offered fresh terms at the Stadium of Light as confirmed in the club’s recent retained list.

Hawkes has enjoyed a breakthrough season for the Black Cats U23s and helped his side reach a play-off final following his move from Hartlepool United.

The club confirmed on Tuesday that club captain Max Power would be released this summer at the end of his contract.

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