Sunderland are set for major changes this summer as Jack Ross looks to build a squad that is capable of returning to the Championship at the first time of asking.

With new owner Stewart Donald now in charge of the club there is finally some optimism on Wearside, however it will still be a tough year for the Black Cats.

They will need to ship out many big earners whilst sides from the top two divisions will already be circling for the better players in the squad.

That has already been the case with Paddy McNair, after Brighton saw a £2m bid for the midfielder rejected.

Whilst Sunderland held firm to reject that approach, the reality is the player wants to move and it may be tough to stand in his way.

Here we look at three potential replacements that could come in for the Northern Ireland international...

Reports have today suggested Sunderland are keen on bringing their former player back to the Stadium of Light and it would be a great deal for the club.

Leadbitter cares about Sunderland but more importantly would add a lot to the team. He would be an upgrade on the current midfield and would also bring a winning mentality to the group that has been lacking.

This would be an ambitious move but Sunderland are the biggest club in League One and will be able to attract the better players in the league and Shrewsbury's Nolan fits into that category.

He is energetic, scores goals and has a great all-round game. The issue will be fending off interest from Championship sides.

Again, Kamara would be an ambitious move from Sunderland but he has the energy and quality to really improve the Black Cats.

He is expected to leave Dundee in the summer and new boss Ross has already revealed he wants to target the Scottish market having worked at St. Mirren last season.

Once again the problem will be interest from elsewhere but Sunderland might be an attractive move for the player.