Sunderland Transfers: 10 Players Derek McInnes Could Bring With Him
7. Britt Assombalonga
The Nottingham Forest striker was reportedly a target of David Moyes early into his Sunderland regime, but the Scot failed to land the 24-year old despite allegedly scouting him in a Griffen Park clash between Forest and Brentford.
Should he remain a Black Cats target, Derek McInnes would possibly face opposition from new Middlesbrough manager Garry Monk, as he looks for his first signing since taking over at the Riverside.
Assombalonga scored 14 times last season, and was vital in assuring Forest's Championship survival as they limped home on goal difference in 2016/17. His brace in their 3-0 victory over Ipswich Town on the final day of the season helped seal their safety.
Possibly aware of their current limitations, Forest appear to be shoring things up at that end of the pitch, as they look imminently poised to sign Hibernian striker Jason Cummings.
This could however mark an exit path for the centre forward, especially if he wishes to avoid another potential relegation scrap.