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 have signed defender Leo Hjelde from Championship rivals Leeds United on a four-and-a-half-year deal for an undisclosed fee. The 20-year-old centre-back has been limited to just three appearances for Leeds this season, and eight in total. Sunderland have also signed Romaine Mundle.
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.
Here, 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:
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
2. LB: Leo Fuhr Hjelde
The 20-year-old defender has signed for Sunderland in 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
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
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