Lorenzo Pellegrini and 37-cap international – Three players Sunderland can sign for free in 2026
Florent Ghisolfi will already be planning for future transfer windows at Sunderland.
Fifteen new arrivals checked in at the Stadium of Light this summer, and so far, they have paid off, with the Black Cats having won two of their opening three Premier League encounters.
However, while the summer window is closed, Ghsisolfi and co will already be planning for future recruitment, with January and even next summer to think about.
With that in mind, Mackem News looks at three players Sunderland could sign for free in 2026.
Sunderland could bolster midfield further with Lorenzo Pellegrini
Four new midfield arrivals made the move this summer, with Granit Xhaka already impressing at Sunderland with his early-season performances.
However, if the Black Cats can avoid relegation, it will need more attention, and Lorenzo Pellegrini would be a great option.
The Italian international has been a mainstay for Roma since joining in 2017, and will know Ghisolfi well from his time there.
He turns 30 next year, and while Roma have the option to extend his deal, it remains to be seen whether they trigger it.
Tyrell Malacia can rebuild career at Stadium of Light
Tyrell Malacia was a star at Feyenoord, though, like many players, completely lost his way after making the move to Manchester United.
He started just twice for the Red Devils last season, before being shipped out on loan to PSV back in his home country.
It’s almost certain that he will leave for free next summer, and despite a poor time at Old Trafford, he will have plenty of suitors.
Reinildo has impressed at Sunderland at left-back, with Arthur Masukau as cover, but the addition of Malacia could dethrone both of them on Wearside.
Amadou Haidara could replace Dan Neil
Dan Neil’s contract is up at Sunderland next summer, and it is still unknown whether he will sign a new deal at the Stadium of Light.
If not, the need for another defensive midfielder comes clear, and Amadou Haidara could be perfect.
The midfielder has made 37 appearances for Mali, having also featured 222 times for Leipzig since joining in 2019.
His contract is due to expire in 2026, and with his role at the Bundesliga club decreasing each season, a new adventure could be on the cards.
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