‘Roberts exit in pipeline at Sunderland’ amid Leeds United transfer news
Sunderland stalwart Patrick Roberts could now face an instant exit after promotion.
The Black Cats secured a place in the Premier League with a number of stars from their League One days playing a key role at Wembley.
Luke O’Nien was one of those, despite his early injury, with the winger also representing a true fan favourite for his efforts since 2022.
This sentiment may not matter moving up from the second tier as transfer interest continues to build ahead of the transfer window’s opening date.
Roberts faces uncertain future at Sunderland
There is no illusion at the Stadium of Light as to how difficult life is going to be in the top division, and what it will take to avoid relegation.
With that in mind, a number of signings are going to be required in order to avoid becoming the next Southampton or Leicester City.
This has seen Norwich City star Borja Sainz linked with a move to Sunderland, with the winger keen on playing in the Premier League [SportsBoom, 6 June].
Leeds United and Burnley are also interested in the Spaniard’s signature, which could see the Black Cats award him assurances of a certain number of first-team league minutes.
If that were to be the case, it could prove to be difficult for other stars like Roberts to feature regularly, and as a result, an exit could be on the cards.
The 28-year-old would certainly represent a useful player for almost every Championship club, so there is bound to be plenty of interest in his signature if he were to become available.
Sainz could replace Roberts at Sunderland
There is no doubt that the 24-year-old Canaries star has plenty of quality, which could easily bring him up to the standard needed in the Premier League.
This is especially the case after coming off the back of a 20-plus goal involvement season, despite falling off slightly in the second half of the campaign.
Whether he could be revitalised under Regis Le Bris is yet to be seen, but it is fair to assume that he could hit higher heights than Roberts in SR5.