Sunderland AFC transfer rumours: Cats linked with THREE deals, Kevin Phillips makes Luke O'Nien claim, Elliot Embleton latest

By James Copley

Published 1st Jun 2021, 11:00 BST

Updated 2nd Jun 2021, 09:57 BST

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Sunderland are finalising their transfer plans ahead of a busy summer.

Lee Johnson’s men now face a fourth straight season in the third tier of English football.

Indeed, sporting director Kristjaan Speakman says that Sunderland are taking their time to assess potential targets.

It’s set to be a busy summer at the Academy of Light, Lee Johnson continues to reshape the squad he inherited in December 2020.

Luke O'Nien of Sunderland reacts as he inspects the pitch prior to the Sky Bet League One match between Wigan Athletic and Sunderland at DW Stadium.

Luke O'Nien of Sunderland reacts as he inspects the pitch prior to the Sky Bet League One match between Wigan Athletic and Sunderland at DW Stadium.

Here, we take a look at the latest transfer news from Sunderland and around League One:

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. (Sun on Sunday)

Sunderland must sign a new left-back this summer… that’s according to Kevin Phillips. “They’re going to need a natural left-back, you can’t rely on Luke O’Nien to be playing left-back and centre half next season. I think they need to find players that are suitable for their own position and maybe Luke can be used somewhere else in his rightful position.” (Football Insider)

Sunderland’s sporting director Kristjaan Speakman has insisted that Elliot Embleton will be given first-team opportunities at the Stadium of Light next season. (Sunderland Echo)

St Johnstone striker Guy Melamed is set to become a free agent this summer after an impressive debut season in Scotland. Sunderland are said to be interested in a deal. (Various)

QPR man Todd Kane is another one of the names to have been linked with a move to Wearside this summer. Portsmouth have also been linked with the right-back. (Various)

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