The following nine players are playing for their futures at the Stadium of Light.
With the window for incomings now shut – barring those in unemployment – Sunderland can focus their attentions on deals for those already at the club.
As many as nine Black Cats’ contracts are set to expire next summer, including three loanees.
Here we assess their chances of remaining at the Stadium of Light:
Adnan Januzaj
No purchase option was mentioned when the Belgian arrived on Wearside from Manchester United last month, but it is unlikely the Red Devils will stand in the way of their former boss David Moyes should the Scot wish to take his former protege full-time.
Jason Denayer
Another Belgian, in a similar boat. Denayer may find the gap to Manchester City’s first team a difficult one to bridge and a return to Sunderland looks favourable, provided he impresses.
Javi Manquillo
The Spaniard’s loan contract does include an option to sign him on a four-year deal at the end of the campaign. However, the Atletico Madrid defender cannot afford a repeat of his spell at Liverpool if he wants that to happen.
Victor Anichebe
Signed, arguably, as a matter of urgency rather than desire. However, Moyes and the Nigerian go way back and it is not difficult to envisage an extension being offered.
Steven Pienaar
Another of the Scot’s old cronies from Everton. However, Pienaar’s downfall will almost certainly be his advancing years – he will be 35 by the season’s end.
John O’Shea
Already 35, O’Shea looks to be on his last legs at Sunderland (and, quite possibly, in football), though he could still be kept on – especially if the likes of Denayer, Lamine Kone and Jan Kirchhoff depart.
Seb Larsson
Out until February with ligament damage, the Swede – who HITC Sport understands earns £60,000 a week – is up against it as he looks to impress his seventh permanent Sunderland boss since 2011.
Jan Kirchhoff
Having impressed following his move from Bayern Munich in February, it is perhaps surprising the German has not yet been tied to a new deal. However, talks are reportedly underway and could reach a conclusion soon.
Will Buckley
Exiled to Championship side Sheffield Wednesday for the rest of the season, it is safe to assume Buckley will not be getting a new deal in the north east. Given the £5 million capture of Adam Reach last week, his struggles could even continue at Hillsborough.
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