Clarke update, in-demand star eyed, key signing rumour

The January transfer window is now open, and following the appointment of Michael Beale on Wearside, Sunderland have an opportunity to bolster their squad as they push for promotion.

Results have been fairly up and down for the Black Cats this season, but they sit well within the race to clinch a spot in the play-offs as the winter market opens for business.

With an opportunity for Sunderland to strengthen their squad, Football FanCast has gathered some of the latest transfer rumours regarding the possible incomings and outgoings at the Stadium of Light this month.

Latest Sunderland transfer rumours – in

Tuesday 16th January

Luke Thomas – Leicester City: According to Sunderland Nation, Sunderland are eyeing a deal for Leicester left-back Luke Thomas.

The defender spent the first half of the season on loan at Sheffield United, but his loan was terminated and he is now free to join another club this month. And, a loan deal for Thomas is one that Michael Beale is very keen on.

Injury problems are really hurting the Black Cats at left-back at the moment as Niall Huggins suffered a serious knee injury and Dennis Cirkin may not play again this season either having required surgery on his hamstring, which leaves just Aji Alese as an option.

Macaulay Langstaff – Notts County: Sunderland are interested in signing Notts County striker Macaulay Langstaff.

It is believed they want around £1.5m to let him go. Birmingham City, Derby County, Peterborough United and Hearts would all be interested, so it won’t be easy for the Black Cats, though they are the most advanced team in the running.

The striker has caught the eye down in League Two with his 21 goals in all competitions this season.

Latest Sunderland transfer rumours – out

Tuesday 16th January

Jack Clarke: According to the Sunderland Echo, Sunderland’s contract talks with star man Jack Clarke remain at an impasse amid transfer speculation this window. There is understood to be interest in Clarke from France, Germany and Premier League teams.

One worrying thing for fans is that the Black Cats and Clarke remain some way off in their negotiations in terms of the player’s weekly wage, with a Premier League club no doubt being able to offer more.