But which former Black Cats stars are now free agents having been released by second-tier clubs?
Here, we take you through all of the ex-Sunderland players who have been released from Championship clubs
Would you take any of them back at the Stadium of Light? Let us know on our Facebook and Twitter accounts.
Simply scroll down and click through the pages to take a look at the list:
1. Stewart Downing
Stewart Downing enjoyed a loan spell at Sunderland during the 2003/04 season. Following spells with Aston Villa, Liverpool, West Ham and Middlesbrough; the attacker is now a free agent after departing Championship club Blackburn Rovers. Photo: Alex Pantling
2. Martyn Waghorn o
South Shields-born striker Martyn Waghorn came up through Sunderland's academy but has just left Wayne Rooney's Derby County after three seasons at the club. Photo: Alex Pantling
3. Keiren Westwood
Keiren Westwood spent three seasons at Sunderland between 2011 and 2014 before moving to Sheffield Wednesday. However, following the club's relegation to League One, the goalkeeper has been let go. Photo: Alex Pantling
4. Jerome Sinclair
Jerome Sinclair, who spent half a season on loan at Sunderland during the 2018/19 campaign, is now a free agent after leaving Watford. Photo: Dan Istitene