Alongside sporting director Kristjaan Speakman and head of recruitment Stuart Harvey, Johnson must rebuild the Black Cats’ squad for another assault in League One next season.
The club’s third-tier status coupled with a new billionaire majority owner in Kyril Louis-Dreyfus has prompted plenty of transfer links to circulate.
Here, we take a look at all of the incomings and outgoings that Sunderland have been linked with so far this summer.
Here, we take a look at all of the incomings and outgoings that Sunderland have been linked with so far this summer.
5. Dion Sanderson
It has been reported that Sunderland are increasing their efforts to sign Dion Sanderson – who spent last season on loan at the Stadium of Light – on a permanent deal. However, the Black Cats’ reported £2million move for Sanderson will depend on the finances involved according to some reports. Photo: Lewis Storey
6. Eliot Embleton
Sunderland’s sporting director Kristjaan Speakman has insisted that Elliot Embleton will be given first-team opportunities at the Stadium of Light next season but the attacking midfielder is being linked with a move to Blackpool - where he spent the back-end of last season - following the Tangerines' promotion to the Championship. Photo: Catherine Ivill
7. Will Grigg
Sunderland striker Will Grigg is attracting interest from his former side Wigan Athletic, who could potentially launch a bid this summer. Grigg enjoyed a loan stint at MK Dons from January. Photo: James Chance
8. Josh Hawkes
The Sunderland youngster - who enjoyed a breakout season for the U23s - has been linked with a host of clubs including Ipswich Town, West Ham and Leeds United. Lee Johnson, however, is said to be keen on giving Hawkes a run of games during pre-season. Photo: FRANK REID 2020