Sunderland have had a renewed focus on signing young prospects from across the globe with players like Jewison Bennette joining the set-up on Wearside. The Qatar World Cup has offered clubs and fans alike to witness some of the best young talent from around the world play on the very highest stage possible.
But which youngsters impressed at the tournament? And should Sunderland look to sign any of these stars for the future on the back of their performances Qatar?
With that in mind, here, we take a look at some players that Sunderland could look to sign following the tournament - and four that although they impressed in Qatar, won’t be joining the setup on Wearside.
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5. Azzedine Ounahi (Morocco)
Ounahi was one of the stars of Morocco's run to the semi-final and has been the subject of great transfer speculation. Whilst Ounahi may see his long-term future at a higher level than the Championship, Sunderland could be a good destination for a loan-move if he is signed by an English team that want him to gain exposure to the demands of the English game. Photo: Dan Mullan
6. Pape Matar Sarr (Senegal)
Sarr played the second-half of Senegal's eventual 3-0 Round of 16 defeat to England. During his time on the pitch, Sarr was able to have some bright moments in-front of goal and show glimpses of why Spurs rate him so highly. Photo: CHRISTOPHE ARCHAMBAULT
7. Gio Reyna (USA)
Sunderland born Reyna hardly featured for USA in Qatar, playing just 52 minutes for his country. Reports of a falling out between the 20 year old and Gregg Berhalter have since emerged as one of the contributing factors to this surprising lack of game time. Reyna is seen as one of Borussia Dortmund's top young talents and although a move to Sunderland would be seen as a fairy tale move, it's likely his future lies above the Black Cats' current standing in the game. Photo: Aitor Alcalde
8. Josh Sargent (USA)
Sargent entered the World Cup on the back of some sparkling form for Norwich City with the 22-year-old having netted eight goals in the league, including his winner against the Black Cats back in August. Although he didn't find the back of the net in Qatar, it is clear that Sargent can score goals in the Championship. Photo: Lars Baron