Sunderland’s preparations for the 2024/25 campaign are officially underway.
The players reported back for pre-season testing on Friday and began their training programme today, which was also Régis Le Bris’ first day officially in charge of the Black Cats. Sunderland will now have a solid two-week training block before the squad splits for friendlies against Gateshead and South Shields, with the pre-season tour of Spain to follow. Here, we run through the state of play with every player currently in Le Bris’ senior squad and make a summer transfer window prediction for each and every one...
9. Dan Ballard
Another with strong interest from the top tiers but Sunderland don't want to sell at the moment and could even look to try and sign him to an even longer, better deal this summer. Is thriving on Wearside and so while a move away can't be ruled out entirely, doesn't seem likely just now. | Frank Reid Photo: Frank Reid
10. Jenson Seelt
Making good progress in his recovery and returned for pre-season on Friday, but is deemed highly unlikely to play again this calendar year after suffering a serious knee injury. Showed last season he can be a good option when fit, hopefully in the second half of the season. | Frank Reid Photo: Frank Reid
11. Nectar Triantis
Back from a loan at Hibernian where he predominantly played in defensive midfield, and so will be interesting to see whether we see that in pre-season. A loan later in the window looks a possibility given O'Nien and Ballard's consistency, but Seelt's injury means there'll definitely be a chance to impress in pre-season. Photo: Frank Reid
12. Zak Johnson
After a successful loan at Dundalk he is likely to join the senior group in pre-season, and should get some game opportunities. A loan move to the EFL could then be a really good option later in the summer. Made real strides over the last two years and Sunderland rate him highly. Photo: Frank Reid