Sunderland has identified three potential key players as its primary January transfer target.

Sunderland may already have their sights set on potential acquisitions for the upcoming summer, should they secure a promotion. Here are three players they could consider on free transfers.

Currently positioned in the play-offs, Sunderland is considered one of the leading contenders to maintain this status.

Credit goes to Tony Mowbray for shaping the Sunderland team into its current form, and it’s likely that he will aim to build on this progress.

Given the youthful core of the squad, achieving promotion may prompt the addition of more experienced players to provide stability and strive to retain their top division status.

Hence, if promotion is achieved, here are three ambitious targets that Sunderland might pursue without transfer fees in 2024:

1. Scott McKenna

Scott McKenna, who has demonstrated his abilities as a dependable Premier League defender with Nottingham Forest, is also a regular for the Scottish national team. Pursuing McKenna would be an ambitious move for Sunderland, one that could bolster their defense, which has occasionally struggled. To secure his services from Forest, Sunderland would need to convince him that they are a team well-prepared for Premier League football as his current contract nears its end. At 26 years old, McKenna is in the prime of his career and could form a formidable defensive partnership with Dan Ballard and Luke O’Nien.

2. Stefano Sensi

Stefano Sensi, an Italian midfielder with nine international caps, currently finds himself out of favor at Inter Milan. However, for Sunderland, he could become a crucial figure. At 28 years old, Sensi is in the prime of his career and has displayed his skills over the years, suggesting that he deserves a more significant role than a bit-part player. Pairing him with Dan Neil in midfield could create a formidable combination, both on and off the ball. This potential signing holds promise.

3. Konstantin Tyukavin

Konstantin Tyukavin, a 21-year-old Russian striker, is a player whose stock is on the rise. His three goals and four assists in 11 league games this year for Dynamo Moscow indicate his potential for a move to a higher-tier league. With his contract expiring in June 2024, he could be a valuable bargain for Sunderland, potentially resolving their striker concerns.