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.
9. CAM: Alex Pritchard
Another player who has missed parts of the season with injuries but made a significant impact in the final few weeks of the 2022/23 campaign. Photo: Frank Reid
10. LW: Jack Clarke
Clarke, 22, started 46 of Sunderland’s 48 league games (including play-offs) during the 2022/23 season, scoring nine goals and providing 12 assists. Photo: Martin Swinney
11. ST Ross Stewart
Sunderland hope their star striker, 26, will be back for pre-season after being sidelined since January with an achilles injury. Photo: Frank Reid
12. SUB: Alex Bass
The 25-year-old has made just two senior appearances, both in cup competitions, for Sunderland since joining the club from Portsmouth last summer. Photo: Martin Swinney