From stoppers to strikers, a host of names were believed to be the subject of interest from Jack Ross and the club’s recruitment team over the summer months as they looked for new faces. But what really happened with them? Scroll down and click through the pages to see what really happened with these Sunderland transfer ‘targets’ during the summer trading period - and where they eventually ended up:
5. JOSH KOROMA
Bonne’s former Leyton Orient teammate was also highly-coveted this summer. Huddersifield proved the youngster’s eventual destination, after he was allegedly identified as a Sunderland target back in January. Photo: George Wood
6. STEWART DOWNING
Given geographical considerations, it’s perhaps no surprise that Downing was linked with Sunderland after his Middlesbrough exit. He eventually joined Blackburn Rovers in the second tier, reuniting with Tony Mowbray. Photo: Alex Livesey
7. MARCUS MADDISON
Social media was sent into meltdown with some of Maddison’s posts, teasing a move to Sunderland this summer. But nothing materialised, and he remains with Peterborough United. Photo: Alex Pantling
8. JASON PEARCE
Sunderland, Oxford and Portsmouth were believed to be keen on the experienced centre back, with defensive recruits high on Jack Ross’ wishlist. He was quickly tied to a new contract at Charlton Athletic after rumours of interest emerged. Photo: Charlie Crowhurst