Transfers: 10 Sunderland players linked with summer exits as Everton, West Ham and Southampton circle

The transfer window is now underway with several Sunderland players linked with exits this summer

Sunderland have completed their first summer transfer deal earlier this week with the departure of goalkeeper Alex Bass.

After a successful season on loan at AFC Wimbledon in League Two last season, Bass now joined Notts County for an undisclosed fee. Bass joined Sunderland from Portsmouth after the club’s promotion from League One but was unable to force his way past Anthony Patterson in the pecking order.

Sunderland’s Sporting director Kristjaan Speakman said the move made sense for all parties, particularly given the young goalkeepers pushing through the club’s academy. Matty Young had a hugely successful loan at Darlington last season, while Adam Richardson is also highly rated.

Speakman said: “Alex had a successful loan last season and he is eager to continue playing regular football moving forward. After discussing multiple options heading into the summer - considering Alex’s future and the continued development of our younger goalkeepers - we agreed this move was the best outcome for all parties. All at SAFC wish Alex the best of luck in the next stage of his career.”

Here, though, we take a look at the 10 Sunderland players who are being linked with summer transfer exits after the departure of Bass: