We’re now 18 days into the January window, and Sunderland’s only business has been young Trai Hume, who is yet to feature in League One. So what better time to look at the rumour mill and discuss some potential comings and goings on Wearside?
ROSS STEWART
In recent days, Stewart has been linked with several clubs from a higher division, but Swansea City seem to be showing the most interest. With the goals Stewart has scored, it’s obvious that he’d start attracting attention. Russell Martin had already made two bids for the striker back when he was managing MK Dons, and Stewart was plying his trade north of the border. However, Sunderland are in no position where they need to sell, with Stewart’s contract running until 2023. His goals have fired Sunderland into a very strong position for promotion, and surely no amount of money can be worth risking promotion this season. The ‘Loch Ness Drogba’ seems content at Sunderland, so unless his head is turned by the money, there’s no real incentive for him to move clubs at this time.
PATRICK ROBERTS
The diminutive winger has been linked with Sunderland since the very start of January, but nothing has materialised yet. Roberts’ loan spell with French club Troyes is supposedly set to be cancelled in the coming days, in order to facilitate a move to the SoL. Given Lee Johnson’s links with the Man City hierarchy, the success of the Callum Doyle deal and Sunderland’s need for something a bit different out wide, this could be a move that suits all parties.
JERMAIN DEFOE
This feels surreal to write, but a Defoe return could very much be on the cards. Of course, it depends heavily on a number of factors, most notably his wage demands. Defoe is thought to have suitors in the Championship, but could a romantic return to Wearside tempt the legendary striker to join Lee Johnson’s promotion push?
JORDAN STOREY
The Preston defender has been linked with several League One clubs, including Sheffield Wednesday, Ipswich and Sunderland. He’s struggled to find consistence at Deepdale, and a loan move is the best option for the 24-year-old. He has been described as an athletic, ball-playing centre half which could be the solution for Sunderland leaky defence, with both Callum Doyle and Tom Flanagan looking fatigued in recent weeks.
