Sunderland AFC transfers: Your new-look starting XI if the rumours are true - including six new signings: gallery

By James Copley

Published 4th Dec 2023, 09:00 BST

Updated 4th Dec 2023, 09:13 BST

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

It was an interesting summer for Sunderland with several players joining the club in the transfer window - and the rumour mill already in overdrive regarding potential incomings and outgoings during January.

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:

The homegrown Sunderland goalkeeper is firmly Tony Mowbray's first-choice and has started every league game since midway through the club's final season in League One.

1. GK: Anthony Patterson

The homegrown Sunderland goalkeeper is firmly Tony Mowbray's first-choice and has started every league game since midway through the club's final season in League One. Photo: Jess Hornby

The Northern Ireland international defender, who can also play at right-back, has been one of Sunderland's stand-out performers this campaign.

2. LB: Trai Hume

The Northern Ireland international defender, who can also play at right-back, has been one of Sunderland's stand-out performers this campaign. Photo: FRANK REID

After an injury-hit first couple of seasons, Niall Huggins has cemented himself as a first-team regular.

3. RB: Niall Huggins

After an injury-hit first couple of seasons, Niall Huggins has cemented himself as a first-team regular. Photo: Frank Reid

The former Arsenal defender is one of the first names on Tony Mowbray's teamsheet.

4. CB: Dan Ballard

The former Arsenal defender is one of the first names on Tony Mowbray's teamsheet. Photo: Ian Horrocks