Sunderland keeping tabs on Manchester United midfielder Ethan Galbraith ahead of midfield revamp

The Black Cats need to revamp their central midfield options after experienced trio Max Power, Grant Leadbitter and Josh Scowen were all released at the end of the season, Power has since signed for League One rivals Wigan Athletic.

Sunderland have options including Carl Winchester and Dan Neil but midfield additions will be high on the priority list for head coach Lee Johnson ahead of the new season, with the players back in training next week.

The Echo understands one option being considered is a loan move for Northern Ireland youngster Galbraith, with Manchester United likely to allow him to move out on loan next season for the next stage of his development.

However, should Sunderland firm up their interest, they are likely to face strong competition from Championship clubs and League One promotion rivals.

The 20-year-old midfielder made his debut for the Under-23s in February 2019, less than two years after he signed from Linfield, but he has quickly impressed.

It is understood that Manchester United are keen to secure loan moves for players such as Galbraith in order for them to gain valuable experience in a first-team setting.

Sunderland are facing a major revamp of the squad this summer. As previously reported Aiden McGeady is expected to sign a new deal to extend his stay but Charlie Wyke is set to leave Wearside this summer.

Talks are ongoing with Denver Hume and Luke O’Nien, though there is fresh confidence versatile O’Nien could be set to extend his stay in the North East.

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