Sunderland interest in ex-Liverpool, Bolton and Blackburn midfielder

And the Black Cats have been credited with an interest in former Liverpool, Blackburn Rovers and Bolton midfielder Jay Spearing.

The experienced 31-year-old midfielder is available on a free after leaving League One rivals Blackpool. Parkinson and Spearing previously worked together at Bolton Wanderers and he has been linked in the Sun.

Last week Parkinson confirmed he is targeting a minimum of seven summer signings.

The Sunderland boss was appearing on BBC Newcastle’s Total Sport where he was quizzed on the current situation regarding transfers.

And while there remains a great deal of uncertainty around football – not least the prospect of hard salary caps coming into play into League One next season – Parkinson has confirmed that he feels the club are ‘close’ to making a breakthrough in the market.

Parkinson admitted he is eyeing ‘seven or eight’ new additions over the coming months.

“That’s about what we’re looking to bring in,” said the Black Cats boss.

“Flanagan has got a contract offer and we’re in negotiations and there’s another player who I feel we’re close to getting a deal done with.

“After that, it’s just like every summer. It’s about being patient and getting the best players available for the budget.

“That’s what we’re trying to do – cover all scenarios and get the right players in to be really strong.”