The big transfer window changes set to engulf EFL
in League One, it may well see clubs and agents asking for more realistic fees - which could aid the Black Cats in their recruitment drive. not be offering fresh terms to four of their most-coveted assets. That quartet, who all played a key role in the U’s promotion push in the fourth tier, will now head to the free agent pile.
Colchester and Cambridge are unlikely to be the only clubs to take such measures as the weeks go on, and that could see some improved options available on a free transfer this summer.
It’s certainly a market for Sunderland to monitor - particularly given the financial pressures all clubs will be facing when it comes to paying fee.
With expenditure likely to be down, could clubs now turn to their academy graduates?
Portsmouth boss Kenny Jackett believes that there could be a spike in the number of younger players handed opportunities as we move into the 2020/21 season.
“You have got to concentrate on those players you have and getting the best out of them if you can,” he told Portsmouth’s official website. “You can also look to bring on some younger guys and give them the opportunity to prosper whenever possible. It will change slightly and given that you won’t be able to alter that, it will bring a manager’s skill and qualities to the fore.”
Sunderland have a number of young players on the periphery of the first-team who could be deserving of a chance if new recruits are hard to come by.
Jack Diamond, Bali Mumba, Benji Kimpioka and Ethan Robson have all caught the eye either at the club or while away on loan, and could provide a welcome boost to Parkinson’s squad next season - albeit the final pair are out of contract on June 30, with no decisions yet made on their future.
After reports last week that League One and Two clubs were keen to see a salary cap implemented in the future, the EFL confirmed that talks are ongoing over fresh financial controls.
In a statement issued on April 25, they said: “In consideration of the current challenges, a variety of proposals and ideas have also been put forward by EFL Clubs in relation to operational and financial matters.
While these contributions are welcome, it is important to emphasise that there is a range of opinion among our membership and that no decisions have been taken at this stage.
“In addition, the EFL Board is also consulting with member Clubs about potential changes to financial regulations with the aim of improving the current position.Thesediscussionsfollow on from the reviews of divisional cost control measures that were already underway at the start of the outbreak.”
In the short-term though, these look unlikely to affect Sunderland and their recruitment plans for the summer.