Middlesbrough keeping tabs on Sunderland defender Denver Hume amid contract uncertainty

Hume, 22, is one of four players Sunderland are in contract talks with alongside Charlie Wyke Aiden McGeady and Luke O’Nien.

There is strong Championship interest in both Wyke and O’Nien following impressive campaigns.

Academy product Hume, currently out with a hamstring injury, is one boss Lee Johnson is keen to keep hold of but there is interest from elsewhere and Football League World credit Boro with a strong ongoing interest.

Johnson's tenure as Sunderland head coach has been blighted by serious injuries in defence.

Wyke, who top scored with 31 goals, was also reported to be a target for Boro this summer but the Echo, as previously reported, understands he is not among their top targets as they look to revamp their striking options.

This is what the Echo’s Sunderland AFC writer Phil Smith had to say about the contract talks with the SAFC quartet in his most recent Q&A.

PS: “Aiden McGeady is believed to be keen on extending his Sunderland stay, so that then becomes a case of reaching a mutually beneficial agreement with the club. The Black Cats want him to stay on as Lee Johnson sees him as a crucial player, but it has to reflect the desire for sustainability too.

“As for Denver Hume, Sunderland will hope that after a frustrating campaign on the injury front the prospect of being first-choice left back next year will be key.

“At the moment, it seems like Wyke and O’Nien are the two who could be the most difficult to retain but these things can change very quickly.”

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