Sunderland are yet to make a signing this summer, but have been linked with a number of interesting players who could arrive in the coming weeks. Here are some names that have been mentioned on the rumour mill recently.
NATHAN BAXTER
The Chelsea youngster played in goal for Accrington Stanley last season, and is reportedly available once more on loan. With Remi Matthews released, this leaves just Lee Burge as our only senior keeper, although Anthony Patterson remains at the club as an emerging prospect. Baxter has League One experience which means Lee Burge will be more determined than ever to keep his place between the sticks. The goalkeeper is very highly thought of at Chelsea, and has said in the past that Petr Cech was his inspiration as a young lad. In 16 starts for Accrington, Baxter kept 7 clean sheets and conceded just 14 goals; less than a goal per game! However, Sunderland must act quickly, as there is no shortage of interest from Championship clubs, particularly newly-promoted Hull City.
JACOB CARNEY
Released by Manchester United recently, Carney has played in goal for United’s Under-23s as well as a loan spell at Northern Irish side Portadown. Tipped for big things in the game, many fans considered Carney the unluckiest player to be released from the United squad. If Anthony Patterson is allowed to leave the club on loan, Carney could take his place in the under-23 side, as well as becoming Lee Burge’s new understudy. Reports claim that the Black Cats have spoke to Carney, despite interest from Premier League sides Burnley and Brighton. This signing would be a huge statement of intent from KLD, by investing so heavily in the youth set-up.
ETHAN ROSS
A player with a little less experience than Baxter, the Aberdeen winger is just 19 years old having spent last season on loan at Raith Rovers. The Scottish winger was the captain of the Dons’ under-18 side. Despite joining Aberdeen at just 10 years old, Ross has recently rejected a new contract at Pittodrie and has attracted interest from several EFL clubs. He’s clearly an exciting starlet, catching Kristjaan Speakman’s eye as well as Blackburn Rovers in the Championship. With Aiden McGeady’s future at the club still uncertain, and the winger not getting any younger, Ross could be a mainstay in our side for years to come if he decides to come to Wearside.
CLARK ROBERTSON
Another Scotsman, Robertson is set to leave Rotherham United this summer after three years at the club. The centre back has vast amounts of League One experience with both Blackpool and Rotherham, as well as featuring in the Championship last season for the Millers. The 27-year-old is left footed, which would add some much-needed balance to our defence, with Denver Hume currently the only left-footed defender at Sunderland. Being 27, Robertson doesn’t necessarily have the youth of other transfer targets, but that isn’t necessarily a bad thing, as every title-winning team needs experience at the back.
