Sunderland midfielder Lee Cattermole could leave the club for Ligue 1 side Bordeaux in a shock move, according to TEAMtalk. The 30-year-old made his first appearance of the season for the Black Cats during their weekend away draw at Luton Town.
Whilst it may appear something of a surprise to see that Bordeaux are keen on the player, the fact that they are managed by Gus Poyet, the former Sunderland boss, suggests a clearly common link in this potential interest. The Uruguayan managed the ex-Middlesbrough man during his stint in charge at the Stadium of Light. Cattermole would surely pay close attention to any interest of this nature.
Cattermole still has three-years remaining on his existing deals with the club, earning a reported £40,000-a-week wage. Whilst that is not easily given up, he may wish to test himself at the highest level, and also in the UEFA Europa League, of which Bordeaux are currently involved in qualifiers to reach the group stage.
The French side are looking into the prospect of loaning the player, with the view of it being made permanent. The Sky Bet League One club however would have to cover at least part of the wage during this period. Sunderland were obviously relegated at the end of last season and at least reducing a wage of this nature is something they simply have to consider. Cattermole is still aged 30 and has a good few years left in him still. His experience, including at the highest level with both Middlesbrough and Sunderland in the Premier League, makes him a valuable asset moving forward.