Sunderland lose to Leeds as Masuaku nears exit
Sunderland's record World Cup contingent enhanced the club's profile, with Xhaka, Talbi, Brobbey, Sadiki and Angulo among those whose displays boosted value and appeal.
Sunderland are calmly rebuilding for the new campaign and could strengthen their attack with a £30m signing to help Brian Brobbey reach new heights.
Sunderland look set to start 2026-27 without a front-of-shirt sponsor after the Premier League gambling ban, with the club holding out rather than underselling.
Tutierov was rated Sunderland's best player after the 0-1 defeat by Leeds, with Ellborg at fault for the goal. Adingra, Diarra and Sadiki made welcome returns.
Sunderland lost 1-0 to Leeds in New Jersey after Ellborg's early error allowed Nmecha to score. Rigg impressed, while Tutierov and Ogunsuyi went close late on.
Sunderland headed into the Leeds friendly after a 4-2 defeat by Liverpool, with Brobbey, Adingra, Roefs, Diarra and Sadiki set to return, while Ta Bi missed out.
West Ham are reportedly in talks with Sunderland over Simon Adingra and Wilson Isidor, though Sunderland's valuation of Adingra exceeds what the Hammers will pay.
Arthur Masuaku is set to leave Sunderland on a free, with an agreement in principle reached after his spell failed to develop as hoped.
