SUNDERLAND are involved in ongoing discussions with Brighton over Tommy Watson - but are currently reluctant to allow the winger to leave without a replacement.
The Black Cats are also on track to complete the loan signing of Jayden Danns ahead of this evening’s 11pm deadline, with the Liverpool forward set to begin a medical on Wearside in the next few hours.
Brighton are understood to have lodged a formal bid of around £8.5m for Watson, with the final fee potentially rising above that once potential add-ons are included.
Sunderland have not accepted the offer, but remain in discussions over Watson’s future. Last week, Regis Le Bris stated that the teenager would have to be replaced if he was to leave ahead of tonight’s 11pm deadline, and the need to secure a replacement is at the forefront of the Black Cats’ thoughts.
Brighton’s Simon Adingra has been mentioned as a possible option, but sources claim there are a number of potential alternatives currently being discussed.
The situation remains fluid, with Watson not yet having been given permission to speak to anyone about a transfer.
Sunderland won the battle to sign Danns on loan earlier this morning, and the forward’s season-long switch from Liverpool is progressing well.
Danns has been given permission to travel to Wearside to undergo a medical and complete the formalities of his switch from Anfield, with the Liverpool hierarchy regarding a loan move to Sunderland as an excellent opportunity for the 18-year-old to continue his development.
Provided things progress without a hitch, Danns should be confirmed as a Sunderland player ahead of tonight’s deadline and could watch the Black Cats’ game against Middlesbrough from the stands at the Riverside.
