Sunderland closing in on Middlesbrough skipper Grant Leadbitter deal as Tony Pulis delivers verdict on move

Sunderland are closing in on a deal for Grant Leadbitter and Tony Pulis admits it would be a "wonderful move" for the Middlesbrough skipper.
Grant Leadbitter is wanted by Sunderland AFC.Grant Leadbitter is wanted by Sunderland AFC.
Grant Leadbitter is wanted by Sunderland AFC.

Jack Ross is keen on bringing the boyhood Sunderland fan back to the Stadium of Light this month and a deal is close and Leadbitter could be unveiled by the weekend.

Boro boss Pulis has been speaking about the move for the first time and confirmed talks are taking place and admits it would be a good move for his skipper, pushed further down the Boro pecking order following the arrival of John Obi Mikel.

Grant Leadbitter is wanted by Sunderland AFC.Grant Leadbitter is wanted by Sunderland AFC.
Grant Leadbitter is wanted by Sunderland AFC.
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On Leadbitter, Pulis said: "I think they’re talking.

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"Grant’s a wonderful professional, he’s been fantastic since I've been at the club.

"He’s a Sunderland lad, and it’d be a wonderful move for him.

"Grant has a lot of affection for Sunderland, as he does with this club.

"We'll do anything we can. But the finances are out of my hands, they’re between both parties."

Leadbitter has made eight appearances this season.

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The 33-year-old had been minded to stay on Teesside regardless, rebuffing approaches from the Championship earlier in the January window.

However interest from Sunderland has changed the picture and he now looks set to rejoin his boyhood club.

He made over 100 appearances in six years for the Black Cats before leaving for Ipswich Town.