Sunderland will be looking to strengthen their squad in the transfer market this summer - but what do their options look like ahead of the window?
The Black Cats have seen loanees Joe Gelhardt, Amad and Edouard Michut return to their parent clubs following the end of the 2022/23 campaign.
Some players may also leave Sunderland, on loan or permanently, in the coming months.
Here’s a look at what the club’s strongest starting XI and bench could look like as things stand - only including players who are expected to be available when the season kicks off in August.
. Picture by FRANK REID
Ross Stewart playing for Sunderland. Picture by FRANK REID Photo: Frank Reid
. GK: Anthony Patterson
The 23-year-old started every Championship fixture for Sunderland during the 2022/23 season and is reportedly attracting interest from Premier League clubs. Photo: Martin Swinney
. RB: Trai Hume
After starting the season on the fringes of the squad, the 21-year-old has become a key player for Sunderland this year. Photo: Frank Reid
. CB: Danny Batth
While he missed the end of the season with a knee injury, the 32-year-old was the Sunderland Supporters’ Player of the Year for the 2022/23 campaign. Photo: Frank Reid
. CB: Dan Ballard
Despite missing parts of the season due to injuries, the 23-year-old still produced some impressive performances in the heart of Sunderland’s defence. Photo: Frank Reid
. LB: Dennis Cirkin
It was also an up-and-down season for Cirkin, with the 21-year-old overcoming multiple injury setbacks. Photo: Frank Reid
. CM: Dan Neil
With Evans expected to miss the start of next season, Neil, 21, may have to stay in a deeper midfield role. Photo: Martin Swinney
1. GK: Anthony Patterson
The 23-year-old started every Championship fixture for Sunderland during the 2022/23 season and is reportedly attracting interest from Premier League clubs. Photo: Martin Swinney
2. RB: Trai Hume
After starting the season on the fringes of the squad, the 21-year-old has become a key player for Sunderland this year. Photo: Frank Reid
3. CB: Danny Batth
While he missed the end of the season with a knee injury, the 32-year-old was the Sunderland Supporters’ Player of the Year for the 2022/23 campaign. Photo: Frank Reid
4. CB: Dan Ballard
Despite missing parts of the season due to injuries, the 23-year-old still produced some impressive performances in the heart of Sunderland’s defence. Photo: Frank Reid