Every club can have a nightmare in terms of incomings but it seems to have happened at Sunderland more often than not over the years.
Sunderland now seems to have changed tact with sporting director Kristjaan Speakman taking the club in a new direction, with the club focusing on younger players.
The strategy eventually worked in League One as Alex Neil masterminded Sunderland’s return to the Championship before Tony Mowbray stabilised Sunderland as a second-tier club last season.
Here, though, we take a look at some of Sunderland’s worst signings from years gone by:
1. SUNDERLAND, ENGLAND - AUGUST 22: Jack Rodwell of Sunderland is tackled by Andre Ayew of Swansea City during the Barclays Premier League match between Sunderland and Swansea City at the Stadium of Light on August 22, 2015 in Sunderland, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
Jack Rodwell during his days at Sunderland. Photo: Alex Livesey
2. Milton Nunez
Signed for a reported £1.6m by Peter Reid, Milton Nunez made just one league appearance for Sunderland. Photo: Clive Brunskill
3. Darron Gibson
His career at the Stadium of Light was a disaster from start to finish. Photo: Nathan Stirk
4. Tore Andre Flo
Bought for £6.75m, making him Sunderland's second most expensive purchase at the time. Only scored four goals during his time at the Stadium of Light. Photo: Michael Steele