Sunderland have just over three weeks remaining of the transfer window.
The Black Cats looked to have made some sensible changes to their transfer policy after a disastrous 2023/24 campaign, bringing in three players over the age of 23 in Ian Poveda, Simon Moore and Alan Browne.
It had then appeared their transfer window was about to get even better when it was reported that they were finally signing a striker, with Alexandre Mendy arriving on Wearside for a medical.
However, the rumours ended up being false and Sunderland now remain without a No.9 just days before their trip to Cardiff City.
Fans are beginning to panic once again, with their striker pursuit struggling after it was claimed Ike Ugbo was set to rejoin Sheffield Wednesday, while Mendy remains in limbo.
Sunderland have been ‘solid yet unexciting’
Journalist Michael Graham has now rated the Black Cats’ transfer window and has applauded the club for done the ‘most’ important thing.
Writing on X, he said: “A solid yet unexciting 6. Good additions made for no outlay and, most importantly, kept hold of all our top players (so far). Just bloody sign a striker though please!!”
Where can the Black Cats improve this summer?
Sunderland haven’t had the most exciting transfer window, but it has so far been miles better than last summer.
While it is incredibly frustrating that they will face Cardiff without a new forward, it would also be hugely surprising if they don’t bring one in before the end of the window.
Bringing in a striker isn’t the only thing Sunderland needed this summer though, with keeping hold of their prized assets also being a priority.
They have so far managed to do just that, while tying Chris Rigg down to a new contract was like a new signing in itself.
If Sunderland bring in that striker they have been waiting for then the window should really be put down as a big success – if they can keep hold of their key players too.
Jack Clarke was practically written off before the summer began, so anything more than his departure would be a huge bonus.
The likes of Dan Neil and Trai Hume are incredibly important though and keeping them will be key to the club’s promotion hopes.