There is likely to be a clearout at Sunderland this summer and here are two out-of-contract stars Newcastle should consider.
Newcastle manager Rafael Benitez
The power has shifted in the North East as Newcastle earned promotion by winning the Championship and will pass great rivals Sunderland on the way as they finished bottom of the Premier League.
It means it will be at least one more year before another Tyne/Wear derby, but that doesn’t mean the Magpies can’t get one over on their neighbours in the transfer market.
Not many Black Cats players came out of the 2016/17 campaign with much credit, but that does not necessarily mean they are all bad footballers and here are two out-of-contract stars from the Stadium of Light that Newcastle might consider signing themselves.
Sunderland’s Victor Anichebe reacts
Victor Anichebe
Admittedly not a prolific goalscorer, Anichebe did score twice for Sunderland in the best of their six league wins last term as they beat Hull City 3-0.
The 29-year-old is not going to lead the line and terrorise defenders on his own, but his work rate and build-up play makes him a useful asset in attack.
Sunderland’s Jan Kirchhoff in action with Everton’s Ross Barkley
Jan Kirchhoff
A prominent figure for the club under Sam Allardyce after joining in January 2016, he helped the club steer clear of relegation that season with his fine performances.
Capable of playing as a centre-back or in midfield, Kirchhoff found game time limited this term after undergoing a knee operation, yet is still a quality player.
Sunderland’s Jermain Defoe celebrates scoring their first goal with Jan Kirchhoff
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