Sunderland’s quiet summer transfer window has started to test the patience of supporters as they prepare for a historic European campaign.
Former Black Cats striker Marco Gabbiadini believes there is one major positive that shouldn’t be overlooked.
The club have made just one permanent signing so far, with Belgium international Thomas Meunier joining on a free transfer from Lille. That makes Sunderland one of the slowest-moving clubs in the Premier League this summer.
There is a growing frustration among the fams. Sunderland are preparing for a huge 2026/27 campaign after finishing seventh in the Premier League and securing European football. Yet, while new arrivals have been limited, the club have managed to keep hold of several players who attracted attention elsewhere.
Sunderland have kept their biggest names
Gabbiadini believes retaining those players is just as important as bringing fresh faces through the door.
The former Sunderland striker admitted he is following the transfer news closely, just like supporters across Wearside.
“Like most Sunderland fans, I’m checking the BBC Sport website regularly just to make sure I haven’t missed anything,” Gabbiadini told BBC Radio Newcastle.
There have been plenty of reasons for Sunderland fans to worry about losing important players this summer. Granit Xhaka attracted concrete interest from Chelsea, while Brian Brobbey was linked with Manchester United.
Noah Sadiki and Robin Roefs have also been tipped for moves away from the Stadium of Light.
So far, however, Sunderland have managed to keep them.
“We might not sign many, but we haven’t lost any of our really key players either. I do think that was a worry at the end of last season because so many of our players had big seasons.”
Xhaka staying could prove particularly significant after the interest surrounding the midfielder.
“We did have a bit of a near-miss with Granit Xhaka, but he is still at the club. That will probably be one of the biggest deals that wasn’t done this summer for us.”
That gives Sunderland a strong core to work with as they prepare for the Premier League and Europa League.
The problem for Regis Le Bris is that the squad still needs strengthening.
Fans want Sunderland to make their move
Le Bris has already acknowledged that recruitment is more difficult this time around. The Sunderland boss has stressed that the club must be “really precise” when looking for players, particularly with the demands now facing the squad.
That patience isn’t necessarily shared by everyone outside the club.
Supporters had no expectation of another major squad improvement after last summer’s changes, but there was always likely to be an expectation of several additions. With the new season approaching, the lack of movement has naturally increased the pressure.
Sunderland have been linked with Toulouse talent Dayann Methalie, although no deal has been finalised.
There could also be an exit before the window closes. Defender Leo Hjelde is reportedly close to joining Belgian Pro League side KV Mechelen after spending the second half of last season on loan at Sheffield United.
Gabbiadini believes Hjelde has played a useful role, even if his Sunderland career hasn’t quite reached the level supporters may have hoped for.
“He is a player that hasn’t pulled up any trees,” Gabbiadini added. “But he has been dependable in the moments we’ve needed him.”
“Unfortunately, the Premier League can be a cruel mistress. Once a club gets the success of getting into the top flight, some of the players do fall by the wayside.”
“But hopefully he goes on and continues to have a strong career elsewhere.”
