Staying, going, tbc - Sunderland summer transfer predictions and squad audit | OneFootball

Sunderland face a pivotal summer as they tune up for a first European campaign in 50 years. According to Sunderland Echo, director of football Florent Ghisolfi must balance SCR, wages and development pathways while shaping the squad.

Robin Roefs is expected to start next season and is on a long-term deal. Sunderland do not need to sell, although a big bid from an elite club, such as Chelsea, could test their resolve, with next summer a likelier crossroads. Melker Ellborg and Simon Moore should provide cover, while Anthony Patterson is tipped for a permanent exit, with a loan not ruled out and a valuation believed to be £8-10 million.

At the back, Trai Hume, Nordi Mukiele, Dan Ballard, Luke O’Nien, Omar Alderete and Reinildo are set to form the core. Timothée Pembélé, Jenson Seelt, Leo Hjelde, Arthur Masuaku and Aji Alese are likely to move on, with loans plausible given post-promotion wage bumps. Extra cover is expected to be targeted for the expanded schedule.

In midfield, Habib Diarra remains in the plans after an injury-hit first year, with the club keen to avoid an SCR loss. Granit Xhaka and Enzo Le Fée intend to continue on Wearside, while Alan Browne looks a candidate to depart or go on loan. Milan Aleksić appears close to joining Partizan Belgrade on a year-long loan with an option to buy around £1 million, and Noah Sadiki is expected to stay but is one to watch.

Up front, Brian Brobbey should begin as first-choice. Wilson Isidor is minded to stay yet all parties remain open to a sale if the deal suits. Eliezer Mayenda is more likely to go, potentially contingent on Isidor’s future, while Chris Rigg is set for more minutes and Abdoullah Ba could head out on loan.

Source: Sunderland Echo