But what could Sunderland’s starting XI look like if some of the summer transfer links turn out to be true? Here, we take a look:
5. LB: Dennis Cirkin
Sunderland fans are looking forward to Dennis Cirkin's return from injury. Photo: FRANK REID 2022
6. CM: Edouard Michut
Sunderland hold an option to purchase Edouard Michut from PSG during the summer window. Photo: FRANK REID
7. CM: Dan Neil
The midfielder is an extremely important part of Sunderland's team under Tony Mowbray. Photo: FRANK REID 2022
8. AM: Haissem Hassan
According to French newspaper L’Equipe, Sunderland are one of a number of clubs to have taken a serious look at Haissem Hassan. The 21-year-old Frenchman currently plays as a winger for Spanish club Villarreal Photo: Aitor Alcalde