There is a great deal of uncertainty about what could lie ahead for Sunderland when the summer transfer window opens for business later this week.
Some decisions have been taken after the Black Cats confirmed the likes of former captain Corry Evans, former Blackburn Rovers star Bradley Dack and Academy of Light graduates Ellis Taylor and Jack Diamond were all named on a released list last month along with a number of youngsters from the club’s youth ranks. Loan players Mason Burstow and Callum Styles also returned to their parent clubs.
New signings will be made during the summer - although first and foremost a new manager must be appointed and owner Kyril Louis-Dreyfus has confirmed naming a successor to Michael Beale is getting close.
But what could lie in wait for the Black Cats during the summer? We thought we would have a bit of fun and take a look at how Football Manager 2024 predicts the coming will pan out at the Stadium of Light...and it started with the appointment of Chelsea legend Frank Lampard!
5. IN: Jamal Lowe - free transfer
The forward spent last season on loan at Swansea and has now been released by parent club Bournemouth. He was snapped up by Lampard as the Chelsea legend continued to put his own stamp on the Sunderland squad. | Getty Images
6. OUT: Eliezer Mayenda - Las Palmas (loan)
The young forward was sent out on loan once again as he joined Spanish club Las Palmas in a season-long deal. Photo: Frank Reid
7. IN: Cesare Casadei - Chelsea (loan)
Of course Lampard went back to Chelsea for a new signing! Italian midfielder Casadei agreed to a season-long stay at the Stadium of Light and spending time at former Championship rivals Leicester City last season. | Getty Images
8. OUT: Anthony Patterson - Tottenham Hotspur
Spurs completed a second raid on Sunderland after they handed over £13m to sign goalkeeper Patterson. Photo: Frank Reid