Swansea City boss gives update on Sunderland's interest in wing-back Declan John

Phil Parkinson confirmed after Sunderland’s crucial win over Tranmere Rovers on Wednesday night that the Black Cats had asked about the defender as they seek cover and competition for Denver Hume.

The Black Cats are light in that department after Laurens De Bock brought an early end to his loan at the beginning of the month, and Parkinson identified John as someone who could potentially match Hume’s pace and natural attacking instincts.

Cooper is open to the move, with John having played just five times in all competitions this season, but says the deal is not progressing any further at this stage.

“We’re aware of that,” he told Wales Online.

“That’s one of the things that might happen but at the moment, isn't going through that process.

"I know Sunderland played last night so I'm not sure what their movements are this week. I can confirm that rumour as being true, they have shown an interest, but I don’t think it’s gone much further than that yet.”

Parkinson said last week that he was looking at a number of options for the position, and also stated that he had agreed a deal early in the window with one particular target.

The issue was that the player in question was unable to agree terms on a new contract with his parent club, who were therefore unwilling to sanction a loan move as it stands.