The players will undergo the usual fitness testing, before stepping up their football work ahead of the first behind-closed-doors friendlies at the Academy of Light a week on Saturday. Sunderland will face Blyth Spartans and Gateshead before then heading out to Portugal.
Head coach Alex Neil has a relatively strong core of senior players to work with, but as it stands there are some clear gaps.
The Black Cats are yet to recruit any new players, and are still in talks over new deals for some of last season's squad.
As such, there may well be some opportunities for some of the club's best academy talent to step in and aid the transition process as Neil's squad for the campaign comes together.
So who might well get the chance?
We run through some of the likeliest candidates.
1. JACOB CARNEY
Carney signed a two-year deal and despite initially picking up an injury, went on to play the majority of the U23s fixtures. He is expected to join Scottish Championship side Queen's Park on loan this season in search of valuable senior experience, but after Lee Burge and Thorben Hoffmann's departures he may initially be required on Wearside for a short spell. Photo: FRANK REID 2021
2. ADAM RICHARDSON
Sunderland beat off competition from some of the Premier League's biggest clubs to secure Richardson to his first professional deal two years ago, and he has continued to make steady progress since then, including international youth honours and a place on the bench in some Papa John's Trophy fixtures. The opportunity could be there in pre-season to provide some cover for Patterson while recruitment continues, particularly if Carney does go on loan in Scotland at some stage. Photo: Frank Reid
3. HARRISON SOHNA
The 19-year-old has made a good impression both in the U23 side and in his appearances in the Papa John's Trophy, particularly in possession where has proven to be neat and effective. Central midfield is one position where Alex Neil has a strong cohort of established options from day one, so opportunities may be limited. But Sohna is one of those you would expect to step up if they materialise. With one year left on his deal, he will be eager to push for first-team football this season, potentially on loan. Photo: FRANK REID 2021
4. TOM SCOTT
Like Sohna, Scott is now an established member of the U23 side who plays in midfield and whose primary strength is his use of possession. It's an area where competition will be significant even in the early stages of the summer preparation. Photo: Frank Reid