After a successful season last year that resulted in promotion to the Championship via the play-offs, Sunderland are now hoping for more success in the second tier.

Alex Neil has done a great job since taking over at the Stadium of Light last season and he will be looking to take his side further up the Championship now in the hope of solidifying their spot there.

The boss has done well at getting some important players tied down for next season as well as bringing in some new faces.

However, there will no doubt still be more work that the Scotsman wants to get done before the new season is underway.

With that in mind, here we take a look at the latest news coming out of Sunderland.

Aji Alese

Sunderland have completed the signing of Aji Alese from West Ham on a three year deal with the club having the option for a further year.

The 21-year-old has worked his way up through West Ham's academy and during his time with the club has had two loan spells away.

The defender hasn't got a Premier League appearance under his belt but has featured for the Irons in both the League Cup and the Europa League.

This looks like a good signing from the Black Cats ahead of the new season and at 21-years-old, the youngster still has plenty of time to develop his game further.

However, fans may also need to prepare themselves for the player needing time to adapt having not played in the Championship yet.

 

 

Reda Khadra

According to journalist Alan Nixon, the Black Cats are interested in recruiting the 21-year-old this summer.

The attacking player spent last season on loan with Blackburn Rovers and did well during his time with the club making 27 league appearances and scoring four goals.

Sunderland will face competition if they want the youngster this summer with Sheffield United also being interested in the player this summer.

Meanwhile, if Brighton were willing to let Khadra go on a permanent deal this summer, Anderlecht may too be interested.

However, this would be a solid addition for Sunderland if they could get it done. The player already has experience in the league and with room to develop further, it could be an exciting addition this season.

Ross Stewart

Alex Neil recently revealed that Ross Stewart is suffering with a slight injury explaining his absence from the side's recent friendly.

However, the boss has also confirmed that the injury is nothing serious meaning he will be ready for the new season.

Given Stewart's recent links to a move away from Sunderland this summer, this is news that will no doubt be welcomed by the fans.

The 26-year-old scored 24 goals for the Black Cats last year and will be looking to have another big season for his side this year.