Sunderland could lose Robin Roefs and Noah Sadiki this summer as part of a need to sell to balance the books.
The Black Cats spent £155m in the summer on 14 new signings after promotion, with a new-look team impressing upon their return to the Premier League.
Sunderland sit 12th in the table and are comfortably clear of relegation trouble, a vindication of their substantial investment. However, sales are likely to be required to comply with financial rules and several stars are attracting interest from Premier League rivals.
Robin Roefs and Noah Sadiki have been linked with sides including Chelsea and Manchester United, and each could earn the club a sizeable profit after being signed for modest fees last summer.
Journalist Nick Barnes has said it would be no surprise to see both leave at the end of the campaign.
“I think they have to (sell),” Barnes said to BBC Tyne and Wear.
“Looking at the values of players that have soared, Roefs is one of them. Sadiki is another. As I understand it, under the rules, they will have to sell someone. But that is part of the ‘model’ that Sunderland have adopted.
“They can make significant money on one or two, maybe even three players this summer. But they’re also in a position, they’ll be in the Premier League next season. The money they generate from players they’re bringing in can buy players, who can also increase in value.
“There’s Melker Ellborg coming in with the reputation he’s got. From what we’ve heard, speaking to people in Sweden, is he’s a keeper waiting in the wings if Roefs does go. It wouldn’t come as a huge surprise if Roefs, Sadiki and another left in the summer.”
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