Sunderland must ensure that neither of these two transfer scenarios takes place in January

The January window could be crucial for the Black Cats – and they need to stop a couple of things from happening.

Despite the managerial change, Sunderland will be getting ready for the January transfer window.

Under Kyril Louis-Dreyfus, Kristjaan Speakman appears to have a significant influence. The former will undoubtedly play a significant role in recruitment as the Black Cats attempt to bolster their chances of securing promotion at the end of this season.

Next month, it wouldn’t be shocking to see some young players arrive if their summer transfer activity is any indication.

But, given the departures of players like Danny Batth and Lynden Gooch in the summer, some fans would be eager to see a few more seasoned players join the team.

With so many talented first-team players on its roster, the Black Cats must not just watch out for future signings but also for their present players who may draw attention.

We examine two transfer situations that they cannot permit to occur in January.

But, given the departures of players like Danny Batth and Lynden Gooch in the summer, some fans would be eager to see a few more seasoned players join the team.

Jack Clarke tries to force Sunderland exit

According to a TEAMtalk article, Clarke generated a lot of curiosity during the summer window and even drew bids.

The team that had been most frequently connected to him was Burnley, and the former Tottenham Hotspur player would have been drawn to the opportunity to play in the Premier League.

However, his professionalism was exposed by his former boss Tony Mowbray. It is unclear if he will maintain this level of professionalism come wintertime.

Given that the winger has flourished under the 60-year-old’s tutelage, Mowbray’s departure might not aid the Black Cats in their attempt to retain him. However, if the Wearside team can have an open discussion with Clarke regarding their position before the January transfer market opens, he might not be eager to force an escape.

The last thing the club needs is Clarke trying to push for a move away, because that off-field speculation could affect results on the pitch.

Late Sunderland dash for new striker

The Black Cats are obviously in need of a new striker if they hope to increase their prospects of finishing in the top six this season.

Even if the team has potential goal scorers all over the field, they can’t always rely on players like Bellingham and Clarke, even though they have helped the team win the last two games thanks to their efforts.

Their young forwards still need time to adjust and develop, so a veteran forward could be crucial to their promotion quest.

Additionally, they cannot find themselves in a situation where they are without a new striker at the club as the window nears its end.

They run the danger of not fortifying their position at all if they do find themselves in this situation.