Sunderland AFC transfers: Michael Beale's new-look starting XI and squad if gossip is true - with new left-back and attackers: gallery

Here’s a look at what Sunderland’s starting XI and squad – including potential substitutes – could look like at the end of the January window if some of the transfer rumours turn out to be true come the end of the month.

By James Copley

Published 29th Jan 2024, 19:00 GMT

Updated 29th Jan 2024, 19:11 GMT

It was an interesting summer for Sunderland with several players joining the club in the transfer window - and the rumour mill in overdrive regarding potential incomings and outgoings during January with the Black Cats in need of reinforcements in several positions, including centre-midfield and striker with just three days remaining in the current window.

Sunderland defeated Stoke City 3-1 at the Stadium of Light in the Championship last time out. The Black Cats went ahead on the stroke of half-time when Mason Burstow headed the ball back towards goal and was awarded his first goal since his summer loan move from Chelsea

Abdoullah Ba then added a second for the hosts shortly after the interval, before Pierre Ekwah made it 3-0 in the 70th minute. Stoke did manage to pull a goal back when Jenson Seelt diverted the ball into his own net, yet it was too little too late.

The Black Cats have been linked with several players so far during the window without a great deal of activity occuring. With that in mind, we have put together a possible starting XI and squad for next year, including some of the possible signings, if the transfer gossip turns out to be true. Take a look here:

Sunderland have backed their academy graduate who has started every league game since the club’s promotion to the Championship. The 23-year-old also signed a long-term contract until 2028 last year.

1. GK: Anthony Patterson

Sunderland have backed their academy graduate who has started every league game since the club’s promotion to the Championship. The 23-year-old also signed a long-term contract until 2028 last year. Photo: Ben Roberts Photo

The 20-year-old defender is understood to be on his way to Sunderland for a medical ahead of a permanent move to the Stadium of Light from Championship rivals Leeds United. Michael Beale needs cover and competition at left-back after injuries to Dennis Cirkin and Niall Huggins.

2. LB: Leo Fuhr Hjelde

The 20-year-old defender is understood to be on his way to Sunderland for a medical ahead of a permanent move to the Stadium of Light from Championship rivals Leeds United. Michael Beale needs cover and competition at left-back after injuries to Dennis Cirkin and Niall Huggins. Photo: George Wood

The signing of Leo Fuhr Hjelde could mean a return to his natural right-back position for Trai Hume. The Northern Ireland international defender, who can also play at left-back, has been one of Sunderland's stand-out performers this campaign.

3. RB: Trai Hume

The signing of Leo Fuhr Hjelde could mean a return to his natural right-back position for Trai Hume. The Northern Ireland international defender, who can also play at left-back, has been one of Sunderland's stand-out performers this campaign. Photo: FRANK REID

The former Arsenal defender is one of the first names on Michael Beale's teamsheet. Ballard, however, is one caution away from a two-game suspension ahead of Sunderland's upcoming clashes against Middlesbrough and Plymouth Argyle.

4. CB: Dan Ballard

The former Arsenal defender is one of the first names on Michael Beale's teamsheet. Ballard, however, is one caution away from a two-game suspension ahead of Sunderland's upcoming clashes against Middlesbrough and Plymouth Argyle. Photo: Ian Horrocks

Stoke City Stadium of Light Stoke