Five free agent signings Sunderland could turn to in promotion race

Sunderland’s promotion chances have taken a hit over recent weeks, with the Black Cats winless in their last three league games.

Many supporters have suggested that the injuries to key players such as Ross Stewart, Corry Evans and Dennis Cirkin is the main reason behind their recent struggles against the likes of Rotherham and Coventry City.

Although the transfer window is currently shut, clubs can still make moves for players without a club.

Here is a list of five free agents that Sunderland could sign to get their season back on track:

• Jurgen Locadia

The Dutch striker has been a free agent since his January departure from Iranian side, Perspolis FC, where he scored six goals in nine games.

Locadia also recently spent time at VFL Bochum in Germany and Brighton in the Premier League.

The 29-year-old only managed six goals for the Seagulls but it was at PSV Eidenhoven where he is mostly remembered for.

Making 176 appearances for the Dutch side, Locadia was a prominent attacking force scoring 62 goals and assisting 39.

This could certainly prove to be a smart deal for Sunderland, as they only currently have one fit striker in Joe Gelhardt.

• Izzy Brown

Although Brown may not be well-known for his fantastic numbers in front of goal, he is certainly a hard-working forward player who could provide some much needed support to Gelhardt.

The 26-year-old has been a free agent since leaving Preston North End in the summer following a serious Achilles rupture that led to him being released.

Brown has played for a long list of clubs since graduating from the Chelsea youth academy, such as Brighton, Sheffield Wednesday, Rotherham and Huddersfield.

The best years of his career so far was spent at the latter two clubs listed above.

• Bojan Krcic

It’s hard to see Sunderland signing a 32-year-old when you look at their recent transfer strategy, but Bojan is undoubtedly an extremely talented player.

Since coming through the Barcelona academy, the Spaniard has gone on to play for some of Europe’s top clubs like Roma, AC Milan and Ajax before having success with Stoke City in the Premier League.

Bojan most recently played in Japan for Vissel Kobe, but his contract expired earlier this month.

The 32-year-old has made 451 appearances in his club career so far, scoring 93 goals and assisting 40 and could definitely provide some attacking numbers for Mowbray’s side.

• Kieran Gibbs

With Sunderland’s Dennis Cirkin struggling to find match fitness over recent months, former Arsenal left-back Kieran Gibbs could be a smart signing for the Black Cats.

The 33-year-old’s contract at Inter Miami expired this month and has been linked with a number of English clubs.

Gibbs left West Bromwich Albion after their relegation from the Premier League in 2021, but had played in the Championship for the Baggies in the past.

• Danny Rose

Another former England left-back in Danny Rose is also available on a free transfer after leaving Watford in July.

The 32-year-old spent a season on loan at Sunderland back in 2012 and became a fan favourite at the Stadium of Light.

Some have suggested that Tony Mowbray’s current group of players is seriously lacking in some experience and leadership since Cory Evans’ injury- both Gibbs and Rose could offer this in huge amounts.