Sky Bet League One side Sunderland are interested in signing Newcastle United striker Ivan Toney, according to a report from Roker Report.
The Black Cats are preparing for life in the third tier of English football for just the second time in their history following a dreadful few years that has seen them fall two divisions in just two years.
They suffered relegation from the Premier League during the 2016/17 season and failed to prepare adequately for the Sky Bet Championship, consequently suffering back to back relegations.
Former St Mirren manager Jack Ross has been appointed as Sunderland’s new manager, and he will be hoping to take the Black Cats back to the second tier at the first time of asking.
They are in fact clear favourites, with odds as short as 5/2 on them winning the Sky Bet League One title.
The signing of Ivan Toney from North East rivals Newcastle United could go a long way to cementing their position as the favourites.
Toney is extremely experienced in the third tier of English football, having represented a number of teams in Sky Bet League One.
Last season, he helped Scunthorpe United to the Sky Bet League One Play-Off Semi Finals, when they were beaten by eventual winners Rotherham United.
Prior to that, he spent the first half of the season at Wigan Athletic, who went on to win the 2017/18 title.
If Sunderland fail to sign Toney, reports are suggesting that there is also interest in Bradford City striker Charlie Wyke, and Sheffield United’s club captain Billy Sharp.
