The January transfer window will soon be upon us, and at this stage, it is unclear as to where Sunderland could look to strengthen their squad ahead of a potential promotion push over the second half of the campaign.
At first glance, full-back cover feels like a necessity, while there are also arguments to be made for reinforcements in the centre of the park. A barrage of absences in recent weeks have properly highlighted just how poorly-stocked Regis Le Bris’ dressing room is in certain positions, despite a largely positive summer of recruitment.
With that in mind, we turned to ChatGPT to ask which targets the Black Cats should be considering when the new year rolls around. Here’s what artificial intelligence had to say on the matter...
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5. Victor Adeboyejo
What ChatGPT said: “A strong, physical striker who had a solid season in the lower leagues, Adeboyejo could be available for a reasonable price and would give Sunderland a target man option for their attack.” Our say: Again, whether Sunderland will actually be on the lookout for a striker in January remains to be seen, but even if they are, it is almost certain that they wouldn’t be pursuing a player who has scored just twice in 14 League One outings for Bolton Wanderers this term. | Getty Images
6. Jaden Philogene
What ChatGPT said: “Philogene is a highly rated winger who is currently with Villa but could benefit from regular first-team football. Sunderland could pursue a loan move for him to boost their attacking options and add pace and trickery to the team.” Our say: Philogene tore up the Championship last season for Hull City, but has been limited to just 196 minutes of Premier League football so far this term. In truth, probably not the most necessary signing given the emergence of Romaine Mundle and Tommy Watson, but what a wonderful loan addition he would be if Sunderland were to somehow bring him in. | AFP via Getty Images
7. Gio Reyna
What ChatGPT says: "While Dortmund would be cautious about letting such a talented player go, a loan deal could be possible if Reyna needs more consistent first-team football. His creativity, vision, and technical ability would be a game-changer for Sunderland’s attack." Our say: Born in Sunderland while his dad was on the books at the Stadium of Light, Reyna spent some of last season on loan at Nottingham Forest, but has managed just nine minutes for parent club Borussia Dortmund this term. Is there a deal to be struck? Stranger things have happened... | Getty Images
8. Amad Diallo
What ChatGPT said: "Diallo impressed on loan at Sunderland last time and has the potential to return for another loan spell. If Manchester United is open to loaning him out again, Sunderland could try to bring him back to bolster their attacking options." Our say: Apparently AI dreams just as much as Sunderland's fanbase does. Of course, the Black Cats would love to have Diallo back on Wearside, but the chances of it ever happening feels minimal at the present moment in time. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images