And the Black Cats have plucked hidden gems from League Two before – with the popular Luke O’Nien cementing himself as Phil Parkinson’s first-choice right-back and fan favourite.
Here, we take a look at the top-performing players from the fourth tier that Sunderland could sign when the transfer window opens.
1. NICKY ADAMS - Northampton Town
Nicky Adams has been one of League Two's top performers since joining Northampton from Bury last year, making 36 league appearances. The veteran also boasts several League One campaigns with Leyton Orient, Brentford, Crawley Town and Rotherham United. Unlikely to start for Sunderland, the 33-year-old left-back could provide a cheap but experienced back-up to first-choice Denver Hume. Photo: Pete Norton
2. FARREND RAWSON - Forest Green
Phil Parkinson is well stocked in the centre of defence with Alim Ozturk, Joel Lynch, Tom Flanagan and Jordan Willis. However, Farrend Rawson has become one of League Two's premium defenders since signing for Forest Green in January 2018. Just 23-years-old, Rawson could provide back-up should Sunderland decide to move someone on in the summer. Photo: Bryn Lennon
3. BERYLY LUBALA - Crawley Town
A pacy forward who started his career with Birmingham City, Beryyly Lubala has enjoyed a stellar season at Crawley Town. The 22-year-old found the net 12 times and provided three assists in League Two and could provide a different option to Charlie Wyke and Will Grigg Photo: Bryn Lennon
4. RYAN BOWMAN - Exeter City
Ryan Bowman managed to find the net 13 times in 37 appearances this season. However, the 28-year-old Carlisle-born striker hasn't played in League One since the 2010-11 campaign but did enjoy a productive three-season stint in the Scottish Premiership with Motherwell between 2016 and 2019. Photo: Harry Trump