Sunderland released four players at the end of a disastrous 2023/24 season.
Jack Diamond left Sunderland after failing to make an appearance in almost two years, while another academy product Ellis Taylor was let go after an ‘immense’ U21s campaign.
Bradley Dack and Corry Evans were also released after injury-ridden seasons on Wearside, with the latte forced to trade in his captains armband to become a free agent.
The former two were quick to find their new clubs further down the football pyramid, but the seniors are yet to find their next destination.
However, Dack has now been linked with a move to League Two after an underwhelming spell at the Stadium of Light.
Gillingham coach Mark Bonner has admitted he has ‘spoken’ to Dack, who began his senior career at the Priestfield Stadium.
The midfielder spent five years in the Gills’ academy, before making his debut in 2012.
After winning the league title in his first season, Dack went onto make 185 appearances before earning a move to Blackburn Rovers – but it now looks like he could make a long-awaited return.
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Bradley Dack could return to where his senior career began
Speaking to Kent Online, Bonner said: “I have spoken to him but I have spoken to a lot of players in the last 10 days, so nothing other than some conversations. There is no more than that at the moment.
“We are looking to add in attacking positions, we are looking to add potentially in midfield because at the moment we are light but Robbie (McKenzie) has done really well in there.
“We have got lots to add to the squad at the moment but there is no real news on anybody coming in, nothing is imminent, but I have had a number of conversations with players that potentially we could add, just to find out if there is interest, if I like them, if I think they can come and make us better.
“Those conversations go on all the time and he (Dack) is one of many that I have met in recent weeks.
Dack’s salary and injury record cost him at Sunderland
Dack’s age and injury record had begun to make it very clear that he wasn’t cut out for Championship football anymore – especially given the pressure that comes with playing for a club like Sunderland.
However, the 30-year-old could still make a real positive impact in League Two and it could be a really positive signing for Gillingham.
His £15,000-a-week wages were always in conversation on Wearside though, so there is no doubt he would have to take a huge pay cut to join his former club.
His main issue will always be injuries though, but a return to the Gills and a potential push for promotion could give him something to cheer about that he has really been lacking in recent years.