Sunderland are nearing the start of their pre-season campaign ahead of their return to the Championship, with a match in Portugal against Rangers to take place on Saturday 9th July.
Tickets for the clash with the Europa League finalists went on general sale at 5pm yesterday, with tickets priced at £15 for adults.
The Black Cats will the take on Jack Ross’ Dundee United a week later, before trips to Bradford City, Accrington Stanley and Hartlepool United.
Alex Neil’s side will host Coventry City in the Championship a week later.
Here are today’s rumours...
5. Preston to miss out on veteran striker
Preston North End look set to lose miss out in the race to sign Andre Gray, with the 30-year-old likely to sign for Aris Thessaloniki. The forward was released by Watford this summer. (Sportime) | Getty Images
6. Burnley to snap up Man City duo
Manchester City’s Taylor Harwood-Bellis and CJ Egan-Riley are set to sign for Burnley this week following Vincent Kompany’s arrival at Turf Moor. Harwood-Bellis will join the club on loan, while the latter’s move will be permanent. (Manchester Evening News) | Getty Images
7. Premier League club launch £16m bid for Hull City starlet
Brentford are reportedly in pole position to sign Hull City's Keane-Lewis Potter after they made a £16 million bid for the winger. The likes of Wolves and West Ham have also expressed interest in the 21-year-old. (The Sun) | Getty Images
8. Sunderland in pole position to sign Arsenal youngster
Sunderland are reportedly leading the race to sign Arsenal defender Daniel Ballard on loan, despite interest from Millwall and Blackpool. The 22-year-old has enjoyed successful spells with both of the Black Cats' rivals over the last couple of seasons. (James Hunter) | Getty Images