Sunderland could get the green light to clinch new signings this week as key meeting approaches

While the Black Cats can hold discussions with clubs and players – including those who are out of contract – at present, no deals can be signed-off until the transfer window officially opens.

Traditionally, the window opens in June but – given the current uncertainty around football – no date has yet been set for when the market will commence this summer.

But that could all change this week, with the Press Association reporting that Premier League clubs will convene on Thursday, July 9 to discuss their preferred dates for the transfer window. UEFA have already stipulated that their preference is for the window across the continent to close on October 5, but English clubs will have flexibility over when the trading period can begin.

Top flight chairmen and club executives will put forward their suggested dates via a video conference this week in a decision that will have implications throughout the football pyramid.

For once Premier League clubs vote on their preferred dates, it is expected that the EFL will follow suit and align their windows accordingly – handing Sunderland and their rivals some much needed clarity over when they can begin recruiting and moving on players.

The Black Cats are yet to seal a summer signing, but Phil Parkinson said last week he was ‘close’ to agreeing terms with an unnamed target.