Sunderland transfer news: Sky Sports share update on Jobe Bellingham replacement
Sunderland must get to work as they prepare for a first Premier League campaign in eight years.
Several players are entering the final year of their respective contracts, while others could leave the Stadium of Light.
The most likely Sunderland departure would be Jobe Bellingham, who has held talks with a trio of Bundesliga clubs.
As Sky Sports share their Premier League transfer insights, they dished out an update on a potential Bellingham replacement.
Sky Sports preview Sunderland’s summer transfer window
If Sunderland had lost the play-off final to Sheffield United, then Bellingham would already be well on his way.
However, there is now a chance the Wearsiders could keep the midfielder after securing promotion to the Premier League.
Bellingham jetted out to Germany last week to speak with Eintracht Frankfurt, Borussia Dortmund, and RB Leipzig.
The view is that his family are keen on Jobe following the same path as his older brother, Jude, did when he left Birmingham City.
| Club | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| Birmingham City | 44 | 4 | 2 |
| Borussia Dortmund | 132 | 24 | 25 |
| Real Madrid | 94 | 37 | 27 |
While such a move looked on the cards, there is some belief from within the North East club that he could remain on Wearside.
As Sky Sports (1 June) preview each top-flight club’s summer transfer window, they provided an update on Bellingham’s successor.
They say that the Black Cats are still assessing their plans for the summer after reaching the Premier League at the 11th hour.
While new wingers and full-backs are to be prioritised, they also state that Sunderland may need a replacement for Bellingham, who is wanted by Frankfurt and Dortmund, among others.
No potential names were shared, but the Black Cats would be wise to draw up a shortlist.
Sunderland should line up Gustavo Hamer move
Replacing a player of Bellingham’s quality will be tough, but the Wearsiders have been here before.
If the teenager does depart, then Sunderland should look no further than Sheffield United star, Gustavo Hamer.
The Brazilian has been a Premier League-quality player for some time and therefore must be on the move this summer.
Everton and Leeds United have both been linked with Hamer, but surely he would like to keep wearing red and white stripes.
If Bellingham leaves, then the Black Cats will have money, and they should invest it in the 27-year-old.