![source](https://cdn.mashup-web.com/img/sources/the72-small.png)
Sunderland sanction defender exit as League One clubs circle
![https://cdn.the72.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024-01-06T093405Z_1142736662_UP1EK160QKQ2C_RTRMADP_3_SOCCER-ENGLAND-SUN-NEW-REPORT-scaled.jpg](https://cdn.the72.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024-01-06T093405Z_1142736662_UP1EK160QKQ2C_RTRMADP_3_SOCCER-ENGLAND-SUN-NEW-REPORT-scaled.jpg)
01/29/2025 07:40 AM
Sunderland defender Joe Anderson is poised to leave the club on loan before the deadline, according to Sunderland AFC News.
Sunderland have had a quiet January window so far, only bringing in one player while three have moved on. Enzo Le Fee has come in at SAFC, with Regis Le Bris hoping to strengthen his squad before the deadline on Monday.
The three players who have left are Zak Johnson, Nazariy Rusyn and Aaron Connolly. The departures have left the club needing some more depth though none of the trio were pushing for a start.
Despite the lack of depth, another fringe player is now set to depart.
According to Sunderland AFC News, 2023 signing Joe Anderson is set to leave the club on loan. League One clubs Exeter City and Bristol Rovers are both keen on the defender.
The former Everton man was brought in for a low fee in hope of finding first-team football.
However, the move has yet to bear fruit for Anderson, who has made just four appearances. A move to League One could be perfect for the defender, who needs more experience at first-team level.
If it is a success, it could pave the way for him to leave Sunderland for good in the summer.
Set for a relegation battle
As a move to League One looks to be on the horizon for Sunderland man Anderson, he will be involved in a relegation scrap.
Both Bristol Rovers and Exeter City are just above the drop zone as things stand. Neither side are in immediate danger but will be looking over their shoulder.
Exeter in particular are in free fall after five defeats in their last six league games.
With that said though, Anderson may prefer a move to the Grecians due to their tactical setup. SAFC like to play out from the back and with Exeter doing the same and playing a three-back system, it could be perfect for Anderson.
Big week ahead for SAFC
With just a few days left in the transfer window, Sunderland are expected to be very busy.
The Black Cats will want additions to replace the departing fringe players with several linked with Le Bris’s side. Adil Aouchiche and Abdoullah Ba could also still leave the club and are not in Le Bris’ plans.
All this, plus preparation for the Tees-Wear derby on Monday night, leaves Le Bris with much to ponder. It will be hoped deals can be struck though, both for new signings and to enable fringe players like Anderson to find action elsewhere.
The post Sunderland sanction defender exit as League One clubs circle appeared first on The72 - Football League News.