Arbenit Xhemajli nears Sunderland transfer while striker 'target' opts for overseas switch

The 22-year-old impressed for the Black Cats during a trial spell and returned to Wearside late last week as talks continue to take place over his future.

And while Xhemajli was initially set to team-up with the Kosovo under-21 squad this week ahead of their game with England on September 4, it is understood that he has instead opted to remain at the Academy of Light and is continuing to train with the Black Cats ahead of the new campaign.

Phil Parkinson admitted at the weekend that talks are continuing over a deal for the left-footed centre back, while the Sunderland boss is also keen to bring in another two players ahead of the October 16 deadline.

One key area Parkinson is looking to strengthen is up front, with Danny Graham reportedly training with the club ahead of a potential move.

Another mooted striker target was Adam Le Fondre, whose goal-laden spell at Sydney FC reportedly had him on the radar of both Sunderland and Portsmouth this summer.

However, overnight reports from Australia suggest that the 33-year-old – who previously played under Parkinson at Bolton – will be joining Indian side Mumbai City.

Mumbai are owned by the City Football Group and look set to capitalise on uncertainty over league-wide salary caps set to hit the A-League this summer.

Meanwhile, Charlton Athletic are hopeful that former Black Cat Adam Matthews could soon be handed a new deal.

A contract embargo placed on the Addicks has restricted them from handing Matthews – whose contract expired at the end of last season – a new season, but Lee Bowyer is hopeful the departure of fellow defender Tom Lockyer to Luton Town could allow a breakthrough.

“So he [Lockyer] comes out, we can bring someone in now,” said Bowyer, speaking to South London Press.

“We have no right-back, so it probably will be Matthews we look to bring in. And hopefully next week things will change and we might be able to bring in a few more.”

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