The players Sunderland fans want Phil Parkinson to sign this summer - including a former Newcastle United duo

From strikers to centre backs, supporters of the Black Cats had plenty of suggestions. Here’s some of the best:

IVAN TONEY (OR MARCUS MADDISON)

Toney is League One’s top scorer this year and, while he looks bound for a Championship side come the summer, Sunderland fans are keen to see Parkinson take a punt on the former Newcastle United man.

And he wouldn’t be the only player Paul Anderson would raid Posh for.

He commented on our Facebook page: “If we do get a new owner with actual buying power we should move heaven & earth to sign Ivan Toney, and i’d also go for Marcus Maddison as he’ll be a free agent then...”

Carl Jordan and Michael Napier were among the other supporters who wanted to see Toney head north.

JERMAIN DEFOE

Okay, so we should have guessed this was coming…

The striker remains a Sunderland cult hero and, while it is highly unlikely he will return to the Stadium of Light this summer, a host of fans called for him to head back to Wearside.

Sarah Thackeray, Dave Price and Mark Potts Brown were all keen to see him put pen to paper.

But Ian Brewster suggested that the Black Cats should pursue a different tact, posting on Facebook: “Love what Defoe done here but if that’s the best we can do with a realistic signing god help us.

“Realistically why not try to sign a young striker- Mason greenwood from Utd on loan, Rhian Brewster from Liverpool or go back in for Bobby Duncan.”

JONSON CLARKE-HARRIS

Another popular name was that of Clarke-Harris, who netted twice for the Gas against Sunderland during their last League One fixture.

On Twitter, @MichaelBowers15 said: “Clarke Harris from Bristol Rovers. Tore us to shreds a few weeks ago & has pace. Can score goals as well.”

CAMERON BURGESS

The Portsmouth defender netted against Sunderland earlier this term, and some fans would love to see him head to Wearside.

On Facebook, Darren Furness said: “Burgess from Portsmouth and get rid of Flanigan and Oz! Willis, right and Burgess”

Doug Roper added: “Burgess would be an excellent addition. Good call.”

THE BEST OF THE REST

There were some other suggestions by fans on social media too, with supporters mainly focusing on attacking reinforcements.

@DavidHindmsarsh7 said: “Considering we have no money it has to be Chris Martin”

@RamseySAFC had another striker in mind, as he tweeted: “Depends what League we are in. But if we are still in League 1 I would take Rudy Gestede everyday of the week on a free”

Other players mentioned included Matt Crooks of Rotherham United, striker Eoin Doyle – who has been in fine form for Swindon Town this term – and loanee Antoine Semenyo, who is currently with the Black Cats until the end of the term.