With the January transfer window fast approaching, speculation is beginning to swirl once again – and if some of the recent rumours turn out to be true, Sunderland fans could be in for quite a ride.
From prospects to internationals and even the odd headline-grabbing link from Spain, the Black Cats continue to be connected with players right across Europe as Kyril Louis-Dreyfus and Régis Le Bris plan their next moves.
So, we thought we’d have a bit of fun. What might Sunderland’s dream squad look like if the club went all-in this winter and splashed £120million to take the next big step in their Premier League journey? Imagine a few of those rumoured signings walking through the doors at the Academy of Light, a handful of outgoings to balance the books, and a refreshed group ready to push on through the second half of the campaign.
Of course, this is purely hypothetical – a light-hearted look at what could be rather than what will be. But with Sunderland’s recruitment model evolving and their profile rising, it’s hard not to dream a little about what might come next on Wearside.
1. IN: Melker Ellborg
Sunderland have signed Swedish stopper Melker Ellborg for around £3million to sign the 22-year-old from Malmö FF. Anthony Patterson has since departed on loan to Millwall. | AFP via Getty Images
2. Robin Roefs
The Dutch goalkeeper has established himself as Régis Le Bris' number one goalkeeper and won't be going anywhere in January. | Chris Fryatt
3. Simon Moore
The former Sheffield United goalkeeper forms an important part of the goalkeeping group at Sunderland and plays a key role behind the scenes. | Frank Reid
4. Dennis Cirkin
The left-back has returned to full fitness but is entering the last six months of his contract. | Getty Images