It was a mixed month, to say the least, for Sunderland with Ellis Simms going back to Everton combined with Ross Stewart’s injury creating a real problem. The Black Cats prioritised with over experience once again with Tony Mowbray left short in the striking department when the window closed.
Here, though, we take a look at the players Sunderland were linked with during the January transfer window and why the deals didn’t materialise:
9. Cameron Archer
The Aston Villa loanee was heavily linked with Sunderland. However, the attacker chose Middlesbrough and Michael Carrick with a play-off push on the cards. Photo: Michael Regan
10. Bradley Dack
Although Tony Mowbray clearly rates the player, it is unclear whether Kristjaan Speakman wanted the attacking midfielder at Sunderland with Blackburn also reluctant to let him leave. Photo: Alex Livesey
11. Ryan Porteous
The centre-back was linked with several clubs, including Sunderland but ended up joining Watford on a free transfer with the Black Cats fairly well-stoked for centre-back after the arrival of Joe Anderson from Everton. Photo: Richard Heathcote
12. Jonson Clarke-Harris
Despite reports to the contrary, Sunderland were never really interested in Jonson Clarke-Harris, with the player's age and the amount of money Peterborough would likely demand both providing stumbling blocks. Photo: Catherine Ivill