Phil Parkinson is determined to strengthen his squad as early as possible in the transfer window with Football Insider reporting that a Championship winger has emerged on his radar.
What’s the latest?
Sunderland have been linked with another Bristol City young player in Hakeeb Adelakun, and Football Insider suggests they have made a loan enquiry about the 23-year-old’s services.
They aren’t the only club to have done so, however, with League One rivals Doncaster and Rotherham also reportedly keen to snap him up this month.
The length of the loan deal has not been disclosed but since Aiden McGeady is likely to depart on a permanent basis the Black Cats may want to secure Adelakun for the rest of the season.
Sunderland may have to depend on the loan market for most of their incomings this month, with reports suggesting that Parkinson is likely to be limited in his use of any money made from outgoings.
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Adding something different
Antoine Semenyo, another young Bristol City winger, has also been linked with a move to Wearside but Adelakun would be a more dependable option due to his greater experience.
His proven track record in League One means his arrival would likely boost the current players and the fans too, though considering he has played just five games in 18 months he may take a while to get up to speed.
That should be the only doubt Parkinson has over bringing him in, however, as he showed in his previous League One stint with Scunthorpe that he is a quality asset to have in the third-tier, and would add to Sunderland’s quality.
The Black Cats have been boosted by Lynden Gooch’s return from injury but Adelakun would provide an injection of pace that the American doesn’t provide.
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His 16 goal contributions in 2017/18 propelled the Irons to the League One play-offs and if he can replicate that productivity he could have the same effect in the north-east.
Chris Maguire has operated well on the right-wing of late with two goals and two assists in four games, and therefore the Robins’ player may have to prove himself, but the signs suggest he could become an important player for Parkinson.
As far as getting around their limited funds, this seems ideal for Sunderland.
In other transfer news, Will Grigg has been linked with a move away from the club but there is one caveat to a possible deal being struck.
