Sunderland are preparing for yet another big summer in Sky Bet League One as the Black Cats look to make it out of the third tier at the fourth attempt after coming up short once more. 

A defeat in the play-off semi finals to Lincoln City means that Lee Johnson faces a rebuilding job at the Stadium of Light over the coming months as he waits to see what the future holds for some of his key players.

Some departures have already taken place in the North East with the likes of Max Power and Grant Leadbitter having said their goodbyes, whilst there is still much uncertainty over the futures of the likes of Charlie Wyke, Denver Hume and Luke O'Nien.

Here, we round up all of the latest transfer gossip that has been swirling around the club over the past few days.

Recruitment details revealed

As reported by the Sunderland Echo, Johnson and the club's sporting director Kristjaan Speakman are said to be targeting ‘industrious players, who make bold decisions and have creativity' this summer.

The Black Cats are in the market for several new recruits as they look to strengthen in all areas of their team ahead of yet another push for promotion.

Speakman and co are also said to be preparing themselves for many unknown factors which could affect the transfer market, with the effects of the ongoing pandemic set to change the way clubs usually conduct their business.

Free agent are thought to be on the agenda for the club as they look to spend their money wisely.

Blow dealt in winger pursuit

Sunderland have seemingly been dealt a blow in their pursuit of Crewe Alexandra winger Owen Dale, with football journalist Alan Nixon taking to Twitter to claim that Wycombe Wanderers have made a move for the player.

The Black Cats are said to be interested in signing the exciting 22-year-old who has also been linked to Blackburn Rovers, Preston North End and Ipswich Town.

Dale racked up an impressive 12 goals and two assists during the season just gone and is one of the most sought after young talents in the lower levels of the EFL.

It is thought that Crewe will reject Wycombe's opening bid as they hold out for more money.

Celtic claim made over Wyke

Former Aston Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor has encouraged Celtic to give Charlie Wyke a chance this summer as the Hoops weigh up a move for the Sunderland striker, during an interview with Football Insider.

The 28-year-old is yet to decide where his long term future lies after notching up 31 goals in all competitions for the Black Cats last term and could well leave on a free transfer this summer.

Celtic are one of many sides that have been linked with a move for the out of contract frontman and Agbonlahor believes that the Scottish side would be wise to give Wyke a chance:

"It’s worth giving him a chance.

"If he can do that in League One then I reckon it’s worth giving him a chance.

"They need a bit of a change there so it’s worth giving him a chance."