Don Goodman: Sunderland unlikely to change January transfer approach
Don Goodman believes Sunderland will stick to their budget ahead of the January window despite a better campaign than perhaps expected thus far.
A six-game winless run started to show some weaknesses in the Sunderland squad that caused many to start earmarking the January transfer window as the difference maker.
Saturday’s victory against Stoke City ended that run and brought the Black Cats straight back into the promotion mix.
Sunderland will undoubtedly be looking to use the January window to their advantage, but speaking exclusively to Mackem News, Goodman revealed he can’t see the initial budget changing.
When asked if Kyril Louis-Dreyfus may spend more than initially planned, he said: “Probably not. They probably have irons in fires but within budget really and ultimately everything has to be done within budget. That’s the one thing that we know about Sunderland.
“I’ve been critical in the past about certain elements of that – i.e. not signing two or three experienced heads. I’m going back to the last season really and I was absolutely thrilled that they brought in the likes of Alan Browne, Chris Mepham, and I mean even the striker, Wilson Isidor.
“I don’t see a lot wrong other than that clinical bit at the end. I think they’ll probably be ambitious enough that they will do some business, but I don’t see an awful lot wrong with that squad I’ve got to be honest with you. It’s more for me about keeping players than recruiting heavily several other players.“
Sunderland can show ambition in January without breaking budget
Ultimately, ambition isn’t only showcased by the amount of money you spend. Countless teams have tried that in the past and to no prevail.
Sunderland must be active in the window but also smart. There are several areas in which the Black Cats could improve but only if the right option comes along and for the right price.
Perhaps the biggest show of ambition will be the ability to retain their key players.
Jobe Bellingham linked with Borrusia Dortmund (The Sun) is one key scenario to watch out for and keeping him will arguably be the biggest show of ambition the club can make.
In other Sunderland news, Manchester United want to sign one of the Black Cats’ regulars.
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