Sunderland’s transfer business recently has been a looking a little bleak, with Sam Allardyce either renewing contracts or selling those who don’t fit in his plans for the club.
It is understood the club are stalling until the uncertainty of Allardyce’s future is resolved by the FA. Until then the Wearsiders are in limbo, with many suggesting Sunderland have put talks on hold with potential targets for the time being.
Business as usual
With that in mind, Allardyce confirmed earlier this month, in an interview with the club website, that a new striker and right-back are an the top of the list to bring in “top players”, who can fit straight into the starting line-up.
But there is also another position Allardyce would ideally like to fill in; the space sitting just behind the striker. These three positions form the basis of Sunderland's transfer hunt.
Sunderland are also reported to be looking to add another centre-half and central midfielder, although these are not essential at the moment. They are also keen re-sign last season’s loanee, Yann M’Vila on a permanent deal but with a big asking price on his head - despite the six months left on his contract - that is looking a little slim.
With the hopes of addressing the current striker problem with reported main target Diafra Sakho, who has the potential to be left out of West Ham line up as they are on the verge of signing Argentina starlet, Jonathan Calleri; this could see Sakho moving to the North East.
Again, would Sunderland be able to afford the £15million on Sakho? Plus his wages? He could also be a player that might not be to the taste of the next manager at the Stadium of Light.