Sunderland set to sign free agent once takeover is complete as Portsmouth join defender race, Leeds want Carlisle forward while West Ham and Aston Villa eye Coventry star - League One and Two rumours

Sunderland, Portsmouth and Oxford United are heading the chase for Charlton Athletic defender Jason Pearce. The 31-year-old is a boyhood Pompey fan. (Sky Sports)

Meanwhile, the Black Cats are tipped to sign free agent Lawrence Shankland once Mark Campbell completes his takeover. Bolton's Harry Brockbank is also wanted. (The Sun)

It is believed Portsmouth boss Kenny Jackett is considering a swoop for both Shankland and Pearce this summer. (Portsmouth News)

Sheffield Wednesday boss Steve Bruce wants a reunion with Lee Cattermole this summer but his high wages could prove to be a stumbling block. (The Sun)

Rotherham United midfielder Joe Newell has opted for a move to Hibernian after rejecting a new contract with the Millers last week. (Various)

Carlisle United forward Liam McCarron is attracting interest from Wolves, Sheffield United, Leeds and Derby. He is reportedly rated at £250,000. (Daily Mail)

And the Cumbrians could also lose star man Hallam Hope, who is wanted by League Two Swindon Town this summer. Bradford's Eoin Doyle also remains a target. (The Sun)

West Ham United and Aston Villa have joined the race to sign Coventry City midfielder Tom Bayliss, who had previously been linked with Leeds and Newcastle. (The Sun)

Hong Kong businessman Simon Sadler - thought to be the frontrunner to take over Blackpool - has set up two new UK-based companies relating to sports. (Blackpool Gazette)

The Seasiders are the frontrunners - ahead of Tranmere Rovers - to sign defender Ryan Edwards following his release from Plymouth Argyle. (The Sun)

And the Pilgrims are weighing up a move for Bury winger Danny Mayor while Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is willing to help Ryan Lowe with loan players. (The Sun)

Huddersfield Town are set to beat Leeds United to the signature of Forest Green Rovers forward Reece Brown. (The Sun)

Former long-serving Rochdale manager Keith Hill is the favourite for the managerial role at Bury following Ryan Lowe's departure. (The Sun)