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:
. GK: Daniel Iversen
The Leicester City goalkeeper has once again been linked to Sunderland with reports suggesting Anthony Patterson could go the other way. Photo: Justin Setterfield
. RB: Trai Hume
The Northern Ireland man has cemented himself as a vital part of Tony Mowbray's team. Photo: FRANK REID
. CB: Charlie Cresswell
The Leeds United man is a long-term Sunderland target but is currently on loan at Millwall. Photo: Warren Little
. CB: Dan Ballard
The ex-Arsenal man will hopefully be Sunderland's main centre-back for years to come. Photo: Frank Reid
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