According to the Shields Gazette, Fabio Borini and Jeremain Lens’ permanent moves away from Sunderland next summer are a formality.

There had been worry that the duo, who have both left the Stadium of Light temporarily, could financially hurt Sunderland in the future.

However, recent reports have confirmed that will not be the case, with their wages also being covered in full.

Borini left Sunderland for AC Milan over the summer, whilst Lens moved to Besiktas, both loan moves that look set to be made permanent at a later date.

Borini and Lens were two of many departures from the Stadium of Light over the summer transfer window, following Sunderland’s relegation back to the Sky Bet Championship.

Simon Grayson, who was appointed as David Moyes’ successor, oversaw a major reshape of the playing squad, with Sunderland themselves making a number of signings over the course of the summer.

Despite receiving a healthy amount of money over the summer for some of their departed stars, Sunderland’s spending was conservative, with Grayson working to a strict budget and only spending a reported £1.25m.

Sunderland are struggling to adapt to life back in the second-tier, currently sitting just two points outside the relegation zone, having recorded just one victory from their opening eight fixtures.

The Verdict

Sunderland fans will be pleased to hear that both Borini and Lens will be leaving the Stadium of Light permanently in the future.

There has been a major reshape at the Stadium of Light, and whilst Grayson’s squad have not shown signs that they could challenge for promotion in the Championship, it is pleasing to see the club looking stable after a budgeted summer.

Despite a slow start to the season, Sunderland should have enough to avoid back-to-back relegations.

Sunderland fans… Let us know your thoughts!