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Five players Sunderland should buy in January

By Roy Emanuel

SUNDERLAND, ENGLAND - AUGUST 01: David Moyes conducts his first press conference as Sunderland manager at The Academy of Light on August 1, 2016 in Sunderland, England. (Photo by Ian Horrocks/Sunderland AFC via Getty Images)
SUNDERLAND, ENGLAND - AUGUST 01: David Moyes conducts his first press conference as Sunderland manager at The Academy of Light on August 1, 2016 in Sunderland, England. (Photo by Ian Horrocks/Sunderland AFC via Getty Images) /
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VIENNA, AUSTRIA - JULY 16: John Obi Mikel of Chelsea in action during a friendly match between SK Rapid Vienna and Chelsea on July 16, 2016 in Vienna, Austria. (Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)
VIENNA, AUSTRIA – JULY 16: John Obi Mikel of Chelsea in action during a friendly match between SK Rapid Vienna and Chelsea on July 16, 2016 in Vienna, Austria. (Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images) /

John Obi Mikel

One of the more influential midfielders during the past decade in the Premier League, Chelsea’s John Obi Mikel would be a tremendous addition to the Sunderland line-up.

Still only 29 years old, the Nigerian international would command a strong presence both on the pitch and in the locker room. While his skills may not be what they were years ago with the Blues, Mikel displayed excellent skill during a tough 2015-16 campaign at Stamford Bridge.

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A box-to-box midfielder in the truest sense, Mikel’s work rate in the midfield would benefit the defensive half and his accurate passing could bring life to a wilted attack. While he has not been used by Chelsea manager Antonio Conte, Mikel can still be productive and would bring value to a Sunderland team preparing for yet another relegation battle.

A Premier League and Champions League winner in the past, Mikel’s leadership and mentoring of young players at Sunderland could have an immeasurable upside. And with Nigeria not taking part in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, his addition seems poised to come at the perfect time for the Black Cats.

The greatest challenge that presents itself for the possible move are the costs involved. Chelsea would no doubt be looking for a significant transfer fee and Mikel’s wages would be an issue. But with the player not contributing and looking for playing time, the transfer fee and contract would be negotiable aspects.

A strong midfield led by John Obi Mikel would start to see victories become more and more common at Sunderland.

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