Sunderland’s squad has been handed a review by an EFL expert ahead of the upcoming transfer window.
The Black Cats will be anticipating the upcoming January transfer window, both optimistically and cautiously.
Sales are likely to be on the cards for Regis Le Bris’ side, with some outsiders from the squad, including Jewison Bennette and Abdoullah Ba likely to be sanctioned moves away from the club, either on a temporary or permanent basis.
There is also likely going to be interest in Sunderland’s top stars this January, such as Jobe Bellingham, who has European giants Real Madrid as an admirer, whilst Borussia Dortmund also have shown interest in the 19-year-old.
In terms of potential incomings, Louie Barry is a name that could be part of the Sunderland squad by the time Deadline Day rolls around, with the Black Cats reportedly interested in the Aston Villa attacker that is currently plying his trade in League One with Stockport County.
Whilst Sunderland fans will be expecting signings in the coming month, one EFL expert’s view on the state of the current squad suggests that they may be able to cope without several additions.
- READ MORE: Micah Richards name drops Sunderland for ‘very good’ Amad Diallo performance for Man United
EFL expert praises ‘well-balanced’ Sunderland side
Sunderland find themselves currently sitting 4th in the Championship table, just five points away from Sheffield United at the summit, which is a fate that no one expected of Le Bris in his debut season with the Black Cats.
One EFL expert, Gab Sutton on X, has put it down to the ‘well-balanced’ squad that the French boss has to utilise, as he said: “He’s built such a well-balanced team. Strong press. Ability to drop into a compact shape. Can look after the ball for spells, but can also threaten in transitions.
“Hard to see any aspect of your game where you’re majorly lacking – kind of blend doesn’t lose you many.”
Sunderland starting side doesn’t ‘majorly’ lack, however Regis Le Bris must be aware of prominent issue
Looking at the starting 11 for Sunderland across many games this season, there is no doubt that the team doesn’t have any glaring weakness in regards to personnel, with the Black Cats having quality across the shop.
However, issues have sprung up on several occasions in the 2024/25 Championship season in regards to the squad depth available to Le Bris, especially in attacking areas, with Romaine Mundle and Tommy Watson both currently being out with respective injuries.
Sunderland certainly don’t need to significantly strengthen their starting side, as that is the reason why they find themselves in the higher echelons of the league table, but not fixing the prominent squad depth issues will make promotion a challenge this season, especially if injuries continue to come thick and fast.