With the January transfer window well underway, and with rumours and speculation flying around all over the place, the next weeks promise to be intriguing for Sunderland and their supporters.
But while most of the attention will be trained on possible incoming signings at the Stadium of Light, there are also a number of unanswered questions over the future of several members of Regis Le Bris’ squad. While some are fringe players who could likely use a change of scene to kick start their careers, others are key figures who the Black Cats will be desperate to keep around.
With that in mind, who is likely to leave, and who should be sticking around for a while longer? We’ve taken a closer look at Sunderland’s squad below...
1. Aaron Connolly - Could Leave
After only signing for Sunderland in September, Connolly's future at the club has been thrown into considerable doubt in recent days. First, Regis Le Bris hinted that he could be a candidate for an exit, and it is now understood that Millwall hold an interest in signing him this month. It would be bizarre if he were to leave, given how brief his stint on Wearside has been, but it is looking increasingly likely. | Ben Roberts Photo/Getty Images Photo: Ben Roberts Photo/Getty Images
2. Jewison Bennette - Could Leave
Things just haven’t worked out for the Costa Rican on Wearside, and after a lengthy stint with the U21s, it is becoming evermore apparent that his first team prospects at the Stadium of Light are slim to minimal - especially after he was omitted from Le Bris' squad for the FA Cup third round against Stoke City. A loan exit has been touted before, and has been hinted at in recent times too. At this stage, it would be more of a surprise if he stayed put this month, but it remains to be seen where he could end up. | Chris Fryatt
3. Abdoullah Ba - Could Leave
Another who has been starved of first team minutes of late, and who was overlooked on Saturday against Stoke City. You would have to imagine that a move away from the Stadium of Light - whether that be temporary or perhaps even on a permanent basis - would be the best course of action for Ba’s career. Given how prominently he featured in the first team last season, this term must surely feel like a notable regression that suits neither the player or the Black Cats. | Ian Horrocks
4. Nazariy Rusyn - Could Leave
The Ukrainian forward has been limited to cameos under Le Bris, and there is mounting talk of a potential return to his home country among some sections of the press. If the right offer comes along - again, whether that be a loan or a permanent agreement - it is hard to see Sunderland standing in his way. The latest update on his situation comes from the Ukrainian press, who suggest that he is a target for FC LNZ Cherkasy. | Frank Reid