Do Sunderland’s reported transfer targets hint at David Moyes’ long-term plans?

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From Hibernian’s Jason Cummings to Southampton’s Sam Gallagher, Sunderland have been linked with a number of young players.

Understandably, Sunderland supporters were not too happy when the accusation surfaced that their beloved club was preparing for life in the Championship.

The Black Cats are bottom of the Premier League and seemingly lacking the energy or the quality for another Great Escape. But The Chronicle’s claims that David Moyes had identified Hibernian striker Jason Cummings as a player capable of performing in the second tier carried a distinct air of defeatism.

And although Moyes has now refuted such suggestions, it would perhaps make sense for Sunderland to plan ahead. Identifying players capable of inspiring an immediate return to the Premier League is not merely an acceptance of their fate – but sensible forward-planning. As it stands, it’s increasingly unlikely that Sunderland will be a top flight team next season.

Furthermore, the Sunderland Echo reports that Moyes will be given the backing to remain at the Stadium of Light even if their eighth successive Premier League season ends in relegation. The Scot is reported to have a close relationship with Chief Executive Martin Bain, who believes the club will return better and stronger with the 53-year-old at the helm.

And Sunderland’s recent transfer links suggests that they are putting a long-term plan in place. Cummings, scorer of 20 goals for Hibs this season, is just 21 and one of the brightest talents in Scottish football.

He is just a month older than targetman Sam Gallagher who, according to The Chronicle, was scouted on a number of occasions by Sunderland earlier in the year. The striker has netted 10 Championship goals on loan at Blackburn Rovers from Southampton.

Furthermore, rampaging Bologna left-back Adam Masina (below), linked with the Wearside club by Tuttomercatoweb, is just 23 and a year younger than Ipswich Town defender Adam Webster. The Daily Mail claim Sunderland are interested in his £4 million-rated signature.

For far too long, Sunderland have been stuck in a rut and lacking an identity. At least this succession of reported transfer targets suggest that they are putting a plan in place.