Sunderland endured a disappointing end to the 2023/24 season – yet preparations are already taking place ahead of the next campaign.
The Black Cats have confirmed a handful of first-team players will leave the club following the end of their contracts this summer, while others will inevitably depart, either on loan or permanently, before the conclusion of the transfer window. Sunderland may also have to fend off interest in some of their key players they want to hang on to.
We’ve taken a closer look at the players who are set to leave the Stadium of Light at the end of the season – as well as others who could depart:
5. Bradley Dack - Set to leave
Dack joined Sunderland on an initial one-year deal, with a club option of an additional year, after leaving Blackburn at the end of last season. After making just 16 Championship appearances this season, it's been decided the Black Cats won't renew the 30-year-old's contract. Photo: Frank Reid
6. Jack Diamond - Set to leave
Diamond, 24, joined League One side Carlisle United on loan in January, where he made 16 appearances. The winger is set to leave Sunderland following the end of his contract this summer. Photo: National World
7. Jack Clarke - Could leave
Sunderland have turned down multiple offers for Clarke over the last year, while the club haven't been able to agree a new long-term contract with the 23-year-old - who has two years left on his current deal. It now feels like the player will move on this summer after an excellent season on Wearside. Photo: Frank Reid
8. Anthony Patterson - Could leave
Patterson has regularly talked about his pride playing for his boyhood club and signed a new contract, which will run until 2028, last year. Still, there has been Premier League interest in the 24-year-old goalkeeper and a big offer could leave Sunderland with a decision to make. Photo: Frank Reid