Five players Sunderland could target in cut-price deals this summer | OneFootball

Sunderland plan reinforcements after a 2-1 home win over Chelsea sealed seventh and Europa League qualification. The league phase brings at least eight extra games, so depth is vital.

According to Sunderland Echo, Curtis Jones, Liverpool, had limited starts despite 49 outings last term. The six-cap England midfielder is into the last 12 months of his Anfield deal and may seek regular minutes. Intelligent and versatile, he could be a smart addition at the right price.

Hayden Hackney, Middlesbrough’s captain, has long attracted Premier League interest. Nottingham Forest made a late January move, while Everton, Manchester United and Newcastle have also been linked. Dynamic and composed, he looks ready to step up, though competition would be fierce.

Mario Gila has impressed at centre-back during a four-year Lazio spell after joining from Real Madrid in summer 2022. He has 120 appearances and has played in the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League. That experience could aid Sunderland in Europe.

With goalkeeper Robin Roefs attracting interest after a standout first season on Wearside, only a huge bid would tempt Sunderland to sell. If contingency is required, Freiburg’s Noah Atabolu stands out. The Germany Under-21 keeper has 22 caps and 120-plus senior appearances.

Thiago Pitarch, Real Madrid, has been linked. The Spanish youth international made 16 senior appearances this season, facing Manchester City and Bayern Munich in the Champions League. He enters his final contract year, with talks mooted but no renewal announced, and Jose Mourinho’s expected arrival could affect his future.

Source: Sunderland Echo