Sunderland clinch double deal as ex-Burnley and Middlesbrough men join under-23 ranks

Younger, who has spent the last 13 years with Premier League side Burnley, joins the Black Cats on a one-year deal.

A centre back by trade, the 20-year-old spent time on loan with League of Ireland side St Patrick’s Athletic earlier this season having previously featured regularly in Premier League 2.

Curry, meanwhile, joins from local rivals Middlesbrough after featuring 20 times in Premier League 2.

The 21-year-old striker has also enjoyed loan spells with Harrogate Town and Inverness Caledonian Thistle, meaning he will bring senior experience to the Cats’ second string.

Speaking about the double deal, under-23 boss Elliott Dickman told safc.com: “We’re delighted to get the lads on board.

"I’ve known Mitchell for a long time and he adds something to the team that we don’t already have. He’s great at making runs in behind and he’s a goalscorer, so hopefully we will see that this season.

“Oliver is another one we’re pleased with. He’s an aggressive centre-back and he’s good in the air. We’ve been delighted with what we’ve seen from him so far and he really strengthens the group.

"As a whole, we’re happy with the additions this summer and we’re looking forward to the season now.”

Younger and Curry are the Black Cats’ ninth signings of a busy summer for the under-23 side – who yesterday added attacking midfielder Josh Hawkes to their ranks.

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