The January transfer window is rapidly nearing its end, yet Sunderland have still to make a major statement in the market.
While Jocelin Ta Bi has arrived to bolster Régis Le Bris’ squad, the 20-year-old winger remains a long-term project. His senior experience is limited to 40 appearances in Israel, underlining that his signing is more about future potential than immediate impact. Sunderland were highly active in the summer, bringing in 15 new players — a recruitment drive that has played a significant role in their current ninth-place position after 22 matches, just three points off the top four. Even so, there remain areas Le Bris will be keen to strengthen before the deadline shuts. With that in mind, X’s AI chatbot Grok was asked to forecast Sunderland’s potential incomings and outgoings over the final 10 days of the window.
Potential arrival: James McAtee (Nottingham Forest, loan with £25m option)
Grok believes the 23-year-old attacking midfielder would offer precisely the energy and balance Sunderland are missing in central midfield. Known for his progressive passing, dribbling, and late runs into the box, McAtee could add goals and creativity while rotating effectively with Granit Xhaka and Enzo Le Fée. His flexibility allows him to operate as a No.8 or in a more advanced role, enhancing Sunderland’s transitional play and set-piece threat without disrupting the existing structure. Having struggled for consistent minutes since his summer switch to Forest, a January loan appears feasible, particularly amid growing interest and Sunderland’s reported admiration. His arrival would increase tactical flexibility, raise competition levels, and inject proven Premier League quality into a side exceeding expectations.
Potential departure: Dan Neil (£8m)
The academy graduate has been a dependable figure for Sunderland, but his role has diminished following midfield reinforcements. With limited opportunities, there is concern his development could stall without regular football. A move — potentially to a Championship club or a lower-mid-table Premier League side — could reignite his progress and restore confidence. From Sunderland’s perspective, selling Neil would generate valuable funds from a player with strong resale value, ease wage commitments, and streamline the squad. While his exit would be handled carefully due to his homegrown status, it represents a logical step in refining the squad during their top-flight rebuild.
Potential arrival: Cucho Hernández (Real Betis, £22m)
The Colombian striker is viewed as a forward capable of elevating Sunderland’s attack to a new level. Since moving from MLS to Real Betis, Hernández has quickly adapted to La Liga, showcasing pace, mobility, and a clinical edge in front of goal. His ability to play across the frontline would complement Brian Brobbey and Wilson Isidor, offering a contrasting option against different defensive setups. With a consistent scoring record, he could significantly boost Sunderland’s goal output while adding an aerial presence at set-pieces. Landing Hernández would deepen attacking options, ease pressure on existing forwards, and enhance Sunderland’s chances of pushing toward the top half of the table.
Potential departure: Luke O’Nien (£4.5m)
The former captain has found his involvement reduced following the arrival of several high-profile defensive reinforcements, including Dan Ballard, Omar Alderete, Nordi Mukiele, and Lutsharel Geertruida. At 31, O’Nien remains dependable, but regular minutes are no longer guaranteed. Championship sides such as Birmingham City, West Brom, and Coventry are reportedly monitoring his situation, valuing his leadership and Premier League experience. A sale would help Sunderland manage wages, create financial flexibility, and sharpen focus on their preferred defensive core, while allowing O’Nien the opportunity for consistent first-team football elsewhere.
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