It has been an interesting summer for Sunderland with several key positions requiring some attention in the transfer window and the rumour mill in overdrive regarding potential incomings and outgoings after the club’s losses to Ipswich Town, Crewe Alexandra and Preston North End.
Sunderland, though, did manage to win in the Championship for the first time against Rotherham United last week with head coach Tony Mowbray stating that the club are close to bringing new signings in.
With that in mind, we have put together a possible starting XI and squad for next season (including some of the possible signings) if the transfer gossip turns out to be true. Take a look here:
1. GK: Anthony Patterson
The Sunderland stopper is firmly Tony Mowbray's number-one goalkeeper. Photo: FRANK REID NATIONALWORLD 2022
2. RB: Colin Dagba
French side Paris Saint-Germain are said to be "in discussions" with Sunderland over 24-year-old French right-back Colin Dagba. Photo: PATRICK HERTZOG
3. LB: Dennis Cirkin
The former Tottenham Hotspur left-back has proved his quality in the Championship under Tony Mowbray. Photo: Clive Mason
4. CB: Luke O'Nien
Sunderland's Mr Versitile is heavily favoured by head coach Tony Mowbray Photo: Andrew Redington