And Sunderland have several big decisions to make with a couple of players coming to the final years of their contracts and others struggling to break into Tony Mowbray’s team.
Ahead of the transfer window, The Echo takes a look at the players that could likely leave the Stadium of Light this summer alongside a couple of maybes and the stars that definitely won’t be going anywhere.
9. Bailey Wright - likely to leave
When the summer comes around, Bailey Wright will have 12 months remaining on his deal but is currently out on loan at Rotherham United after struggling to nail down a starting position at Sunderland. Photo: FRANK REID
10. Chris Rigg - hard to call
The youngster is one of the most sought-after starlets in Britain with rumours of a Premier League move swirling. Sunderland, however, can offer Chris Rigg a superb platform and pathway to flourish. Photo: Ian Horrocks
11. Amad Diallo - nailed on to leave
The Manchester United loanee will return to Old Trafford at the end of the season before the Premier League giants assess Amad's next steps. Photo: FRANK REID
12. Corry Evans - likely to stay
The midfielder has just signed a new deal at the Stadium of Light and looks set to stay beyond the summer despite picking up a season-ending injury recently Photo: Frank Reid