AliousAs January approaches, Sunderland are actively scouting potential signings to bolster their squad for the second half of the season.
The Black Cats have enjoyed a strong 2024/25 campaign under Regis Le Bris, who has turned them into serious promotion contenders in the Championship. Currently sitting in 4th place, Sunderland will close out 2024 with an away clash against managerless Stoke City, where Tony Mowbray is rumored to be a contender for the vacant position.
With the transfer window just days away, Sunderland’s recruitment team, led by Kristjaan Speakman, has been linked with five attacking talents. Here’s a breakdown of the targets and the likelihood of each deal materializing.
### **Brighton’s Evan Ferguson**
Arguably the highest-profile name on Sunderland’s radar, Evan Ferguson has struggled for game time at Brighton, making 12 Premier League appearances this season, mostly from the bench. While a loan move to the Championship could benefit the striker, it seems unlikely given Brighton’s continued reliance on him and reported interest from Arsenal.
### **Aston Villa’s Louie Barry**
Barry, 21, has caught Sunderland’s eye after a standout loan spell at Stockport County, where he impressed in the first half of the season. Villa have recalled the young forward and are considering his next move, with a Championship loan appearing likely. Sunderland would be a strong contender for Barry’s signature, making this deal a plausible option.
### **Celtic’s Daniel Cummings**
Cummings has been making waves in the UEFA Youth League, scoring six goals in as many games for Celtic. The 18-year-old is reportedly on Sunderland’s radar as he seeks first-team opportunities. With his contract set to expire in the summer of 2025, Sunderland could offer him a platform to develop further. This transfer feels like a strong possibility.
### **Halmstads’ Yannick Agnero**
Sunderland are also monitoring Agnero, who has scored four goals in 11 games for Swedish side Halmstads since joining them in the summer. At 21 years old, Agnero fits Sunderland’s profile of targeting young, promising talent, but his lack of prolific numbers and recent arrival at Halmstads make a January move seem less likely.
### **Chelsea’s Harvey Vale**
Another intriguing option for Sunderland is Chelsea’s Harvey Vale. The 21-year-old attacking midfielder impressed on loan at Bristol Rovers last season, recording two goals and five assists in 39 League One appearances. With his Chelsea contract expiring in 2025, a loan or permanent move could be on the cards. Vale’s availability and Sunderland’s interest make this one of the more realistic targets.
### **Verdict**
While Evan Ferguson and Yannick Agnero seem unlikely arrivals, Louie Barry, Daniel Cummings, and Harvey Vale represent plausible targets for Sunderland as they look to strengthen their attack. The January window will be crucial for the Black Cats as they aim to sustain their promotion push.
Sunderland’s final game of 2024 against Stoke City kicks off at 3 pm on Sunday.
Alious
