How many new signings do Cats need in summer overhaul?
It now seems possible that Jon McLaughlin could depart, with Blackburn Rovers a likely destination – although Sunderland have admitted that a deal is hopeful of being struck meaning that Sunderland will be in the market for another senior goalkeeper.
The big question will be whether a new number one is recruited, or whether Lee Burge is given the nod to start the 2020/21 season between the sticks.
Ben Alnwick, James Hillson and Matija Sarkic have been linked with the Stadium of Light in recent weeks, and it’s highly likely that Parkinson will need to recruit in this department - unless the McLaughlin impasse can be breached.
Parkinson has favoured a back three since his arrival on Wearside but, as things stand, Jordan Willis is the only natural centre back under contract for next season.
Tom Flanagan will be hopeful of securing a new deal, after Joel Lynch, Tommy Smith and Jack Baldwin are are of the picture.
The Black Cats, therefore, will likely be in the market for at least two additional options at centre back - one of whom could be Bailey Wright, with Sunderland expected to pursue a permanent deal for the Australian once he is released by Bristol City.
A new left-sided defender is also a priority, as Denver Hume is the club’s only option in that department. Laurens De Bock and Declan John failed to provide competition for Hume in this area over the course of the last twelve months, so recruitment will need to improve on this front over the summer. midfield option. plans.
Sunderland will undoubtedly listen to offers for the former Celtic man, while Will Grigg is another who may be allowed to move on should a suitable offer be received.
The striker attracted interest from a host of League One clubs in January and will no doubt have his suitors again this summer - but again, finances may come into play given the current market and Sunderland would likely to have to be willing to take a hit on the fee they shelled out to Wigan Athletic little over a year.
Meanwhile, Duncan Watmore will see out his contract with Cats, while talks with Benji Kimpioka look far away from a positive resolution.
It could be a big season for Elliot Embleton who, after an injury-ravaged 2019/20, will relish an opportunity to show what he could bring to the table.
But Sunderland will certainly need to strengthen their attacking options. At least one, if not two, central strikers will be required with concerns over where a constant stream of goals will come from.
Another attacking midfielder, to play in the hole behind the striker, would not go amiss either.