Sunderland set to battle Oxford United and MK Dons for top flight midfielder - reports`

The 24-year-old, who only joined the Dutch top flight side in the summer after a spell at Reading, is believed to be free to leave in January.

And the Sun claim that the Black Cats – as well as League One rivals Oxford United and MK Dons – are interested in a deal.

Kelly has featured just twice for Feyenoord this term and has found himself out of favour under Dick Advocaat, after the ex-Sunderland chief succeeded Jaap Stam.

Now, the Rotterdam-based side are reportedly willing to cut their losses on the midfielder despite his current contract running until 2022.

Sunderland are searching for up to five new additions in the winter transfer window, with Phil Parkinson understood to be prioritising adding some extra attacking flair to his squad.