Sunderland are pushing forward with their Premier League rebuild – and Florent Ghisolfi is at the heart of it. The Black Cats’ new sporting director has already been linked with a flurry of transfers alongside his partner in crime, Kristjaan Speakman, with deals including marquee arrivals, shrewd free-agent additions and a record-breaking sale.
It marks the most ambitious summer of Kyril Louis-Dreyfus’ ownership and a bold statement of intent heading into the 2025-26 campaign. Ghisolfi, who turned down Juventus, Newcastle United and clubs in Saudi Arabia to take the Sunderland job, is leading a data-driven recruitment strategy with head coach Régis Le Bris. The pair are looking to build a squad capable not just of surviving in the top flight, but of developing into a long-term Premier League force.
The Echo has launched a new WhatsApp SAFC Channel to bring the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates directly to your phone. Simply click this link to join our SAFC WhatsApp channel.
Of course, some speculation this early in the window should be taken with a pinch of salt – but the general direction of travel is clear. Here, we’ve put together a gallery showing what Sunderland’s ideal Premier League squad could look like once the transfer window is complete.
Who stays, and who still needs replacing? Let’s take a closer look…
25. IN: Chemsdine Talbi
Sunderland have signed Belgian winger Chemsdine Talbi from Club Brugge. The total package is thought to be worth around €23million – approximately £19.5million including add-ons. | Photo by Chris Fryatt.
26. IN: Simon Adingra
Simon Adingra's transfer fee from Brighton & Hove Albion to Sunderland is reported to be £21million, potentially rising to £23.5million with add-ons. | Getty Images
27. Wilson Isidor
Sunderland managed to sign the French striker on a permanent deal in January following his initial loan move. | Getty Images
.jpg?crop=4:3&trim=&width=800)
28. Eliezer Mayenda
The Sunderland striker got off to a flying start against West Ham at the Stadium of Light. | AFP via Getty Images