AI predicts Sunderland's January transfer window activity with three in and three out
The January transfer window is about to open, so we've asked AI to predict who Sunderland could sign and sell.
The January transfer window is here, and while Sunderland have enjoyed a wonderful first half of the season, they may be seeing this as a key moment to consolidate their position.
Even after Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Leeds United, the Black Cats remain seventh in the Premier League table, just four points off the top four in their first season back in the top-flight since 2017. Their defensive record of 18 goals conceded is bettered only by the top two, but Regis Le Bris’ men have only scored 20 goals of their own, which is the fewest of any side in the top 11, while only West Ham (19), Burnley (19), Everton (18), Nottingham Forest (18) and Wolves (10) have managed fewer.
With that in mind, there are some clear areas for improvement within the Sunderland squad. So, we’ve asked X’s AI chatbot, Grok, to suggest three players they should sign in the January transfer window, alongside some departures to help fund the spending.
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Who could Sunderland sign in January?
Pedro Goncalves
- Club: Sporting CP
- Position: Winger/attacking midfielder
- Fee: £30m
Grok: "Sunderland should target Sporting CP's Pedro Gonçalves in January. The 27-year-old has delivered over 16 goal contributions this season across all competitions, bringing flair, vision and versatility across attacking midfield and the wings. His arrival would unlock Sunderland's forward line and add vital creativity, significantly boosting their chances of a European push."
Karim Adeyemi
- Club: Dortmund
- Position: Winger/striker
- Fee: £35m
Grok: "Sunderland should pursue Borussia Dortmund's Karim Adeyemi to bolster their attack. The 23-year-old combines blistering pace with clinical finishing and has attracted widespread Premier League interest. Adding his direct threat would address Sunderland's low goal tally (20 in 18 games) and provide a dynamic option alongside Brobbey and Isidor."
Oscar Bobb
- Club: Manchester City
- Position: Winger
- Fee: Loan
Grok: "Sunderland should secure a loan deal for Manchester City's Oscar Bobb. The 22-year-old Norwegian possesses explosive dribbling, technical quality and goal threat from the right flank. With limited minutes at Manchester City following injury, he needs regular football – a low-cost move that adds flair and depth to Sunderland's wings."
Who could Sunderland sell in January?
Ian Poveda
- Position: Winger
- Fee: £2.5m
Grok: "Sunderland should offload Ian Poveda in January. The 25-year-old winger has struggled for minutes amid fierce competition from Talbi, Adingra and others. With minimal impact this season and a modest market value, cashing in around £2–4m frees squad space and wages, allowing reinvestment in priority areas to sustain their impressive top-half position."
Arthur Masuaku
- Position: Full-back
- Fee: £4m
Grok: "Arthur Masuaku represents an intriguing potential January exit for Sunderland. The 32-year-old, who only joined the club this summer, has managed just 127 minutes this season and sits behind younger options on the left. Offloading the experienced defender clears wages and a roster spot, enabling the club to prioritise youth and dynamism while maintaining defensive solidity."
Dan Neil
- Position: Central midfielder
- Fee: £8m
Grok: "Sunderland should sell academy product Dan Neil this winter. The 24-year-old midfielder has played just 2 minutes despite his previous importance, overshadowed by summer arrivals. With his contract entering its final 18 months, securing about £8m from interested Premier League clubs would provide valuable funds for targeted reinforcements.