After sealing a dramatic promotion to the Premier League last season in Regis Le Bris’ first season in charge, Sunderland are now planning for life back in the big time.

The Black Cats are splashing the cash as they look to buck the recent trend and avoid relegation at the first time of asking, with sporting director Kristjaan Speakman already making moves in the transfer market.

Sunderland’s Premier League return will begin on August 16 against West Ham, but who will be in Le Bris’ side? Grok, the AI tool on X, has forecasted Sunderland’s line-up for 25/26.

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11

GK: Anthony Patterson

After an impressive playoff final display against Sheffield United, Anthony Patterson could get his chance to star in the Premier League with Sunderland.

Although Sunderland have been linked with new ‘keepers, Patterson has been predicted to get the nod under Le Bris.

10

RB: Kyle-Walker Peters

A free agent after leaving Southampton, Kyle-Walker Peters could continue in red and white with Sunderland.

A reported target, Grok says the right-back’s ’versatility and Premier League experience’ could make him ‘a shrewd addition to solidify the right flank.’

9

CB: Chris Mepham

After a successful loan spell at the Stadium of Light, Chris Mepham has been predicted to return to Sunderland on a permanent transfer from Bournemouth.

The Wales international is still just 27 years of age, and it is claimed a permanent move would be sensible ‘due to his composure and Premier League experience’.

8

CB: Dan Ballard

Sunderland’s playoff semi-final hero Dan Ballard looks set to get his chance in the top flight under Le Bris, something which many Black Cats fans won’t mind at all.

Grok states that Ballard ‘remains a key figure and is contracted long-term, forming a solid partnership’ with Mepham if he signs permanently.

7

LB: Reinildo Mandava

Sunderland are on course to sign left-back Reinildo Mandava following his departure from Atletico Madrid this summer.

A free transfer is on the cards, and the 31-year-old’s ‘experience adds depth and competition to the left-back position’.

6

CM: Habib Diarra

Club record signing Habib Diarra was always going to make the XI after Sunderland spent around £30m on the Senegal international.

Diarra is a straight replacement for Jobe Bellingham who left for Borussia Dortmund, and he should slot into a box-to-box role.

5

CM: Noah Sadiki

Another new addition in midfield is Noah Sadiki, who has joined from Union Saint-Gilloise in a deal worth up to £17.5m.

Capable of also playing as a right-back if needed, Sadiki will offer that tactical versatility for Le Bris but has been predicted to start in his primary midfield role.

4

CM: Chris Rigg

Completing the midfield is Black Cats gem Chris Rigg, who looked like he would be leaving the Stadium of Light if Sunderland weren’t promoted last season.

However, he could now shine in the Premier League for Sunderland and is descried as ‘a mainstay in the squad, with his versatility and goal-scoring ability making him a key player in the No. 10 role’.

3

RW: Gaetan Perrin

Gaetan Perrin has been mentioned as a possible target for the right wing, although nothing concrete has materialised so far.

Grok says the Auxerre star’s ‘pace and directness could complement Le Bris’ attacking system, especially with Patrick Roberts needing competition’.

2

LW: Enzo Le Fee

Making his loan move permanent following promotion for around £20m, Enzo Le Fee was always going to be in Grok’s Sunderland XI.

The Frenchman adds ‘creativity and energy’ to Le Bris’ side and was used on the left on numerous occasions in 24/25.