Sunderland have just two league games remaining this season – while the club’s recruitment team will already be looking ahead to the summer transfer window.
The Black Cats were tracking several players during the January transfer window and are bound to be linked with more names in the coming months. For fun, following recent speculation, we’ve put together a possible Sunderland starting XI and bench if the rumours turn out to be true:
37. Potential squad player: Chris Rigg
Despite interest from Newcastle and Manchester United, Rigg, 16, signed a two-year scholarship contract at Sunderland last year. The teenager has been given first-team opportunities, making 13 Championship appearances Photo: Stu Forster
38. Potential squad player: Jewison Bennette
The 19-year-old winger has a contract at Sunderland until 2026. Bennette joined Greek side Aris FC on loan in January, where he’s made just two league appearances, but is set to rejoin the Black Cats for pre-season. Photo: Frank Reid
39. Potential squad player: Tommy Watson
The 17-year-old winger is knocking on the door for first-team involvement and could be set for a big 2024-25 campaign. Photo: Ben Cuthbertson