Sunderland braced for loan bids as scouts flock to watch young stars ahead of transfer window

The Black Cats are willing to allow some of their second string to depart on loan during the winter window, with several sides monitoring the situation of various players as they look to secure deals.

National League side Hartlepool United and fellow non-league outfit Blyth Spartans have been regular attendees at Sunderland's under-23 fixtures in recent months and are keeping tabs on a number of young players who could be available once the window opens.

Indeed, under-23 boss Elliott Dickman has confirmed that 'one or two' of his squad could be set to depart in order to secure regular first-team football - with the Black Cats keen to hand individuals the chance to develop, even if it affects their Premier League 2 results.

“We’ve lost some good players on loan already,” he explained.

“Jordan Hunter, we haven’t had all season and he’s thriving at South Shields. I go to watch him quite a bit.

“Jake Hackett is at Whitby Town and doing smashing. Jack Diamond is at Harrogate Town and doing great.

“There might be one or two others who go out when January comes around.

“We’ll assess it and see where we’re at.”

One player previously tipped for a loan exit was Bali Mumba who, after bursting onto the scene in 2018, has found first-team opportunities difficult to come by this season.

But an exit in January may now not be on the cards, with loan manager Kevin Ball previously hinting that the teenager could be best served by remaining at the Academy of Light as he continues to develop.

Dickman, too, feels that Mumba is making solid progress on home soil.

“Bali is making good progress,” he said.

“There’s obviously a debate out there as to whether he’s a central midfielder or a full-back, but the fact that he’s played a number of positions tells you he is quite versatile and can adapt to different scenarios.

“Hopefully we can see Bali continue to progress.”