Phil Parkinson is keen to add a left-sided defender to his ranks and is still able to add unattached players to his side even though the transfer window has closed.
So who could be available in the free agent market? Scroll down and click through the pages as we take a look at the players Sunderland could consider:
1. Sam Hart
Financially, Hart could be an attractive option. He's young and unproven but comes with a good pedigree after spells at Liverpool and Blackburn. He's also played in League One with Shrewsbury Town, and may well appear on the radar of some third tier clubs as we enter the final stages of the window. Photo: Nick Taylor/Liverpool FC
2. Jordan Obita
Obita left Reading in the summer having spent his whole career with the Royals, and could fit well into the Black Cats' system on the left flank. Questions could be asked over whether Sunderland could afford him under the salary cap, but he'd undoubtedly be a good addition. Photo: Gareth Copley
3. Cole Dasilva
Formerly of Chelsea and Brentford, wing-back Dasilva is fairly unproven - but could he be exactly what Sunderland need? He'd be a natural understudy to Hume, with potential to grow - and he would be a cost-effective option. Photo: Jordan Mansfield
4. Cheick Keita
Released by Birmingham City this summer, Keita has spent a great deal of time out on loan in recent years - including at Italian side Bologna - so would certainly bring some pedigree. Whether he sees his future in League One is another question, though. Photo: MARCO BERTORELLO