Sunderland have kicked off their Championship season strong, sparking real hopes of a promotion push back to the Premier League. After suffering back-to-back relegations to the Championship and then League One in 2017 and 2018, the Black Cats climbed back to the Championship in 2022. Now, with momentum on their side, they’re eyeing a long-awaited return to the top flight.
Under new boss Regis Le Bris, Sunderland have made an impressive start to the season, racking up several early victories, including a hard-fought 1-0 win against North East rivals Middlesbrough in September and a close victory over fellow promotion contenders Burnley in August. With the Black Cats showcasing exciting football in the Championship, they have become an enticing destination for players eyeing a transfer in the January window. Their resurgence makes them a formidable force as they continue to push for promotion back to the Premier League.
As a result, former Liverpool star Jordan Henderson, currently at Ajax, is reportedly open to a return to Sunderland, the club where he began his career, according to Football Insider. While the Black Cats are riding high this season, their success has also drawn attention from other clubs looking to capitalize on their rising talents, particularly young star Chris Rigg. With Sunderland’s revival, it will be interesting to see how they navigate potential interest in their key players as the January transfer window approaches.
According to TalkSport, Manchester United are eyeing 17-year-old Chris Rigg, with HITC reporting interest from Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund as well. League One’s Birmingham City also has its sights set on the talented teenager, as per Alan Nixon, but the allure of European giants makes their interest much more challenging to fend off. As Rigg’s stock continues to rise, Football League World examines three other Sunderland stars who could be facing exits in January amid the growing interest in the club’s promising talents.
Academy of Light graduate Anthony Patterson has established himself as Sunderland’s first-choice goalkeeper since the 2022/23 season, consistently impressing under the guidance of Regis Le Bris. Last season, he recorded an impressive 13 clean sheets, a remarkable feat given his team’s modest 16th-place finish, highlighting his exceptional talent. Additionally, Patterson made an appearance for the England Under-21s last year, showcasing his skills alongside other talented keepers like Burnley’s James Trafford. His performances have not only solidified his position at Sunderland but also made him a player to watch as potential suitors may come calling in January.
According to The Sun, Manchester United is interested in 24-year-old Anthony Patterson, seeing him as a viable backup option for Andre Onana. Sunderland has reportedly set an asking price of around £20 million for their talented goalkeeper. With Patterson’s impressive performances and potential, this move could be beneficial for both the player and the club as they navigate the January transfer window.
Leo Hjelde joined Sunderland from Championship rivals Leeds United last January and made 11 appearances for the Black Cats last season. However, since the appointment of Regis Le Bris, the Norway Under-21 international has found it challenging to secure regular playing time. This lack of opportunity could pave the way for a potential loan move away from the North East in January, allowing Hjelde to gain valuable experience and minutes elsewhere. As the transfer window approaches, his situation will be one to watch closely.
The Black Cats brought in 19-year-old Milan Aleksic from Serbian Super Liga club FK Radnicki during the summer transfer window, but he has struggled to make an impact in the Championship. Since arriving in England, the young winger has faced a lack of game-time, limiting his opportunities to showcase his talents. Aleksic, a Serbia youth international, previously made 29 appearances for Radnicki last season, scoring twice in UEFA Conference League qualifying in July before joining Sunderland. With the January transfer window approaching, a loan move could be beneficial for his development and match fitness.
Aleksic’s performances for FK Radnicki highlight his potential and quality, but his limited game time on Wearside has hindered his development. Given his talent, a loan move away in January could be the best option for him, allowing him to gain valuable experience and playing time. This opportunity could help him return to Sunderland more prepared to contribute to the team’s push for promotion.