AliousSunderland’s £242m Dream Squad: Régis Le Bris’ Potential Starting XI and Bench –
Sunderland’s ascent back to the Premier League has ignited a flurry of transfer rumors, painting a picture of a bold, reimagined squad valued at over £242 million. If every speculated signing materialized, the Stadium of Light could welcome a dynamic, top-tier team blending seasoned stars like Jordan Henderson and Joe Gomez with emerging talents such as Vladyslav Vanat and Matthis Abline. With sporting director Kristjaan Speakman casting a wide net across Europe and beyond, the Black Cats are showing serious ambition. While it’s improbable all these deals will happen, the transfer buzz offers a thrilling glimpse into the kind of squad Sunderland aims to assemble: robust, skillful, and ready for the Premier League challenge. Below, we’ve crafted a hypothetical starting XI and substitutes’ bench featuring players linked with Sunderland, totaling £241.4 million in estimated transfer fees.
1. GK: Sam Johnstone – £10m – Wolves
Sunderland are reportedly eyeing Wolves’ Sam Johnstone to anchor their goal. Priced at £10 million, the seasoned goalkeeper brings Premier League experience and reliability, ideal for the Black Cats’ top-flight return. | Wolves via Getty Images
2. LB: Harry Toffolo – Free – Unattached
Free agent Harry Toffolo, formerly of Nottingham Forest and Huddersfield, is said to be on Sunderland’s radar. His versatility and top-tier experience make him a cost-effective addition to bolster the defense.
3. CB: Wilfred Singo – £20m – AS Monaco
AS Monaco’s Wilfred Singo, valued at £20 million, is rumored to be a target. The athletic right-back’s power and adaptability could thrive in the Premier League’s high-intensity environment.
4. CB: Joe Gomez – £30m – Liverpool
Liverpool’s versatile defender Joe Gomez, priced at £30 million, has been linked with a surprise move to Sunderland. His Premier League pedigree and England caps would be a major coup. | Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC
5. CB: Vladimir Coufal – Free – Unattached
After leaving West Ham, Czech international Vladimir Coufal is reportedly a Sunderland target. A free transfer, his experience and flexibility at full-back add leadership and depth.
6. CM: Jordan Henderson – Free – Ajax
Sunderland academy product Jordan Henderson could make a sentimental return from Ajax, potentially for free due to a contract clause. His experience and leadership would be invaluable.
7. CM: Lennon Miller – £10m – Motherwell
Motherwell’s promising midfielder Lennon Miller, valued at £10 million, is on Sunderland’s radar. His composure and maturity have also caught the eye of other Premier League clubs.
8. FW: Vladyslav Vanat – £17m – Dynamo Kyiv
Sunderland have reportedly made formal inquiries for Dynamo Kyiv’s Vladyslav Vanat, valued at £17 million. The Ukrainian striker’s rising stock makes him a prime target. | Rafal Oleksiewicz
9. FW: Matthis Abline – £6.8m – Nantes
Nantes’ young forward Matthis Abline, priced at £6.8 million, is linked with Sunderland. His Ligue 1 experience marks him as a promising addition to the attack.
10. FW: Armand Laurienté – £17m – Sassuolo
Following Sassuolo’s relegation, Armand Laurienté, valued at £17 million, is a reported target. His pace and flair could electrify Sunderland’s forward line.
11. SUB: Luis Malagón – £10m – Club América
Sunderland have scouted Club América’s Mexican international goalkeeper Luis Malagón, valued at £10 million, offering strong competition between the posts.
12. SUB: Axel Disasi – £38.5m – Chelsea
Chelsea’s Axel Disasi, priced at £38.5 million, is reportedly on Sunderland’s watchlist, with a loan move also speculated. His defensive prowess would add significant depth.
13. SUB: Duje Ćaleta-Car – £20m – Lyon
Lyon’s Croatian centre-back Duje Ćaleta-Car, valued at £20 million, is linked with Sunderland. His aerial strength and experience in France and England make him a solid option.
14. SUB: Charlie Cresswell – £10m – Toulouse
Toulouse’s England youth international Charlie Cresswell, valued at £10 million, is a reported target to reinforce Sunderland’s defensive ranks.
15. SUB: Reinildo Mandava – Free – Unattached
Free agent Reinildo Mandava, formerly of Atlético Madrid, is linked with Sunderland. His Champions League experience and versatility across the back line are major draws.
16. SUB: Isaac Price – £7m – West Brom
West Brom’s Northern Irish midfielder Isaac Price, valued at £7 million, is a rumored target. His energy and technical ability would enhance Sunderland’s midfield options.
17. SUB: Habib Diarra – £18.7m – Strasbourg
Strasbourg’s dynamic midfielder Habib Diarra, priced at £18.7 million, is on Sunderland’s list. The Ligue 1 star’s box-to-box energy makes him a hot prospect.
18. SUB: Charlie Grey – £10m – Manchester City
Manchester City’s promising midfielder Charlie Grey, valued at £10 million, is reportedly attracting Sunderland’s interest among other clubs.
19. SUB: Sam Greenwood – £3m – Leeds United
Sunderland’s long-term interest in Leeds’ versatile forward Sam Greenwood could lead to a £3 million deal, following his loan spell last season.
This dream squad showcases Sunderland’s potential to blend youth, experience, and flair, setting the stage for an exciting Premier League campaign.
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