And the Black Cats have plucked hidden gems from League Two before – with the popular Luke O’Nien cementing himself as Phil Parkinson’s first-choice right-back and fan favourite.
Here, we take a look at the top-performing players from the fourth tier that Sunderland could sign when the transfer window opens.
5. CALLUM EVANS - Macclesfield Town
With Jon McLaughlin's contract situation at Sunderland up in the air, the Black Cats may well need to recruit another goalkeeper to provide competition to current second choice Lee Burge and youth star Anthony Patterson. Callum Evans has turned in a number of impressive performances this season despite Macclesfield Town's poor campaign. Aged just 24, the stopper represents potential and could - in theory - grow with the club. Photo: Gareth Copley
6. RANDELL WILLIAMS - Exeter City
The ex-Tottenham, Crystal Palace and Watford right-back-come-winger - now in his second season with Exeter - has cemented himself as one of League Two's best players and has previous League One experience with Wycombe Wanderers. At 23, Randell Williams represents decent potential. Photo: Harry Trump
7. CHARLIE GOODE - Northampton Town
The 24-year-old centre-back has appeared 35 times in League Two this season, pitching in with three goals and helping Northampton Town to seventh. Charlie Goode could provide an interesting option should Phil Parkinson decide to shuffle his defensive pack in the summer. Photo: Pete Norton
8. EBOU ADAMS - Forest Green
The 24-year-old midfielder, once of Norwich City, has been ever-present for Forest Green this season, making 34 appearances and chipping in with four goals. Although Sunderland are well stocked in the middle with Max Power, Grant Leadbitter, Josh Scowen and George Dobson; Ebou Adams could bring added pace and energy should Phil Parkinson decide to manoeuvre in the transfer market this summer. Photo: Pete Norton