SUNDERLAND will try to move on some of their top earners at the end of the season — with Aiden McGeady, 35, heading the list.
The Black Cats plan to trim their payroll whether they go up from League One or not — and Republic of Ireland winger McGeady will go after five years on Wearside.
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US midfielder Lynden Gooch and keeper Lee Burge could also be on the way out as changes continue at the Stadium of Light.
Sunderland currently sit fifth in the third tier, slipping down the table after a poor run of results.
A 6-0 defeat to Bolton spelled the end for manager Lee Johnson as he was sacked by the club.
And the North East outfit were hopeful they could secure the return of Roy Keane.
But in the end the Manchester United legend rejected the offer because of the length of the contract.
The club would only guarantee the Sky Sports pundit a position for the season.
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Keane, 50, would have needed to shelve his lucrative TV deal to risk it all on gaining League One promotion.
The Irishman was not concerned about the drop in wages but there was no chance for him to plan ahead with the initial suggestion of a short-term stay.
Grant McCann was also offered a similar short deal, likewise stalwart Neil Warnock.
In the end ex-Norwich boss Alex Neil took the post on a reported one-year rolling contract.
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