Ex-Reading man can leave European club amid Sunderland interest as former midfielder finds new club

Manager Phil Parkinson is looking to strengthen his squad in the January transfer window after a tricky start to life in the North East.

Kelly, a 24-year-old midfielder has fallen out of favour at the Eredivisie side since he signed under former boss Jaap Stam this summer.

Dutch outlet Voetbal International has claimed that the former Republic of Ireland international will be allowed to leave by ex-Cats manager Dick Advocaat should the club receive an offer for the one-time Reading midfielder.

MK Dons and Oxford United have also been credited with an interest in Kelly.

In other news, former midfielder Cristian Riveros has signed Uruguayan club Nacional. Riveros, now 37, has signed a one-year deal with Nacional after leaving rivals Libertad on a free transfer.

Elsewhere, tributes are being paid to 1973 FA Cup winner and legend Billy Hughes after he passed away yesterday at the age of 70 following a long illness.

Sunderland coach Elliot Dickman has revealed why he ‘can’t wait’ to see the back of 2019 - and sent a message to his under-23 squad ahead of 2020.

Dickman said: “I’m looking forward to seeing the back of 2019 and moving into 2020, but I’m really encouraged with how the lads have played. I see them all the time and I think they’ve done well for most of the season.”