The Black Cats have already built a young squad in recent transfer windows, with 26 senior players under contract for the 2023/24 season.
Carl Winchester, who remains on loan at Shrewsbury, is the only first-team player whose deal is set to expire in the coming months, yet there are still areas of Sunderland’s squad which need strengthening.
The club will explore multiple deals to try and bolster their options and may be able to find a bargain in the free agent market.
Here are a few Championship players who are nearing the end of their contracts and may become available at the end of this season:
5. Han-Noah Massengo (Bristol City)
There will be more than a sense of frustration at Bristol City that they are set to lose one of their young assets. The 21-year-old central midfielder joined French side Auxerre in January after turning down a new deal at Ashton Gate, with his current Robins contract set to expire this summer. Photo: Getty Images
6. Teemu Pukki (Norwich)
Now 33, the Finnish striker doesn’t fit the striker profile Sunderland were searching for in January. Still, it will be interesting to see where Pukki ends up after five seasons at Norwich, which included two Championship promotions. Photo: Henry Browne
7. Ryan Manning (Swansea)
Swansea fans were chanting they want the left-back to stay last month, yet head coach Martin has said he still expects the 26-year-old to leave South Wales at the end of his contract this summer. Manning has played as a left-back and left winger this season, contributing with five goals and nine assists. Photo: Dan Istitene
8. Ben Osborn (Sheffield United)
Osborn, 28, has played his part in Sheffield United’s promotion campaign despite injuries disrupting his campaign, in which he made 20 league appearances. The Blades’ promotion means he will probably fall further down the pecking order and could be a useful signing for a Championship club. Photo: Catherine Ivill