The transfer business Sunderland still need to do to ensure they are serious promotion contenders

Sunderland have seven days in which to further strengthen as they look to build a team and squad capable of winning promotion this term.

The ongoing financial fallout and loss of revenue from the Covid-19 pandemic and the new salary cap proposals have meant clubs in the EFL have had to alter and strip back their transfer plans.

Sunderland have so far added six new signings but it is no secret that more strength-in-depth is needed. A left-back is an absolute priority, while another attacking option with pace through the middle is needed.

There is room for permanent signings while the loan market is set to hot up towards the end of the window as clubs further up the chain finalise their squad plans.

Sunderland have enjoyed a strong start, unbeaten after four games, two wins and two draws from a potentially tricky start to the fixture list with trips to Oxford United and Charlton and the home game against Peterborough.

Phil Parkinson is experienced enough to know he needs a strong squad with good options and he is currently relying on Denver Hume not getting injured.

Adding pace in the final third should also be a priority, Sunderland are creating chances but adding further pace will add another dimension, while the strikers need to start firing.

Speaking this week, Parkinson said: "There is an area or two that we'd like to be stronger and we'll do our very best."

Sunderland need to do just that if they are to be serious promotion contenders.

Last week saw the transfer window for international deals close, the second, domestic transfer deadline is next Friday, October 16 - deadline 5pm.

Players can still depart clubs after October 16 - providing the window of the buying club remains open.

So hypothetically, that means that Sunderland could get some extra time to find a new club for the likes of Aiden McGeady if no offers are forthcoming by October 16.

Players could also depart to the National League on loan during this period though Parkinson has already stressed outgoings are unlikely at the Stadium of Light, bar McGeady, with Sunderland needing a strong squad.

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