AliousSunderland sit just two points outside the Championship’s automatic promotion spots, and fans are daring to dream that 2025 might finally mark the club’s return to the Premier League.
After years of struggles, including a tumble to League One, the Black Cats are back in contention, starting January with two league wins that underline their promotion credentials.
Manager Régis Le Bris is now looking to strengthen his squad in the January transfer window, with a reliable striker high on the wishlist to bolster Sunderland’s chances of success.
Among the names linked is Stoke City forward Tom Cannon, currently on loan from Leicester City. The 22-year-old sharpshooter has attracted attention not only from Sunderland but also from promotion rivals Sheffield United, setting up an intense transfer battle.
If Sunderland were to secure Cannon’s services, fans at the Stadium of Light would hope he can replicate the impact of their former talisman Ross Stewart.
Stewart, who scored an incredible 40 goals in 80 appearances before departing for Southampton, left a massive void that has yet to be filled. Injuries may have hampered his final season with the club, but even then, his 10 goals in 13 league matches highlighted his clinical ability.
Cannon, hailed as “insane” by football journalist Pete Smith for his goal-scoring prowess, could be just the player to step into Stewart’s shoes.
Despite Stoke’s struggles this season, Cannon has netted nine times in the Championship, demonstrating his reliability as a poacher.
Across his career, including a remarkable 51-goal stint in Everton’s youth ranks, Cannon has consistently proven his ability to deliver in front of goal.
His 19 Championship goals across various loan spells suggest he’s well-suited to Sunderland’s creative setup, with playmakers like Jobe Bellingham feeding him chances.
Cannon’s sharp instincts were on display during his recent clash with Sunderland in the FA Cup, where he confidently converted a penalty within minutes of kickoff.
If the Black Cats can bring him in, he would not only fill the void left by Aaron Connolly—who is expected to leave for Millwall—but could also provide a long-term solution in attack.
For Sunderland, Cannon represents an opportunity to reignite their promotion push with a proven goal scorer capable of turning tight games in their favor.
If Le Bris manages to secure this transfer, it could be a game-changing move that edges Sunderland closer to their Premier League dream.
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