Sunderland’s pre-season came to a conclusion last weekend ahead of this Saturday’s Championship opener against Cardiff City.
Marseille went 1-0 up in the first half at Valley Parade through Faris Moumbagna at Valley Parade on Saturday after Dan Neil lost the ball in the middle of the park. Sunderland hit back after the break after Dennis Cirkin headed home Patrick Roberts’ superb cross.
Half-time substitute Ismael Kone restored Marseille’s lead on the 50-minute mark with a superb finish after Ruben Blanco produced a stunning save to deny Roberts. Nazariy Rusyn, on for Eliezer Mayenda, then won Sunderland a penalty which was dispatched by fellow substitute Adil Aouchiche, who had replaced Jobe. The game finished 2-2.
Leading up to the game, Sunderland concluded a deal for goalkeeper Blondy Nna Noukeu after a successful trial period with the club. The former Stoke City man was present at Valley Parade after his deal. There has also been much transfer talk regarding incomings and outgoings.
Here, we take a look at how Régis Le Bris’ squad could look if the transfer rumours turn out to be true incomings and outgoings:

21. SUB: Milan Aleksić
Sunderland are hoping to conclude a deal to sign Milan Aleksić ahead of Friday’s transfer deadline, The Echo has learned | Netflix UK Photo: Netflix

22. SUB: Ian Poveda
Sunderland have now signed former Leeds United and Sheffield Wednesday man Ian Poveda ahead of the 2024-25 Championship season. Photo: David Rogers

23. SUB: Romaine Mundle
Sunderland signed Mundle for a seven-figure fee from Belgian side Standard Liege in January. The 20-year-old winger signed a four-and-a-half-year deal at the Stadium of Light and made 10 Championship appearances since the move. Photo: Frank Reid

24. SUB: Tommy Watson
The 17-year-old winger is knocking on the door for first-team involvement and could be set for a big 2024-25 campaign. Especially if Jack Clarke leaves the club during the window. Photo: Ben Cuthbertson