Sunderland conclude deal as 'target' says interest is ‘just speculation’ and Lee Johnson makes 'difficult' transfer admission

Lee Johnson has concluded his first deal as head coach, with Forest Green midfielder Carl Winchester making the move to the North East today.

Meanwhile, Sunderland’s third tier rivals Fleetwood Town are still yet to appoint a new boss following the sacking of head coach Joey Barton earlier this week.

Former Stadium of Light bosses Mick McCarthy, Simon Grayson, Jack Ross, Gus Poyet and Roy Keane have been linked to the vacant role by the bookies.

However, none are thought to be front-runners for the job with Tim Cahill and Simon Wiles the current favourites.

Sunderland faced Hull City in League One action on Saturday night with the clash, a 1-1 draw, shown live on Sky Sports.

The Black Cats are pencilled in to return in the third round of the Papa John’s Trophy against Port Vale on Tuesday.

But there’s also plenty of transfer talk ahead of an interesting transfer window for many clubs up and down the EFL pyramid.

So what’s the latest gossip surrounding Sunderland and their League One rivals?

As always, we’re sharing the latest rumours from around the third tier – so scroll down to see the latest news and talk from around the internet:

Roy Keane wants to return to management. The former Manchester United and Republic of Ireland midfielder has been focusing on punditry since leaving his role as assistant manager at Nottingham Forest in 2019. (Sun on Sunday)

Manchester United starlet Ethan Laird has joined Tier three side MK Dons on loan for the rest of the season. (Various)

Portsmouth manager Kenny Jackett today told his Fratton fringe players such as Paul Downing and James Bolton that they won’t be leaving this month unless he can guarantee they can be replaced. (The News)

Portsmouth have been linked with a move to sign former Bournemouth defender Charlie Daniels, who recently played for League One rivals Shrewsbury Town. (BBC)

St Johnstone full-back Scott Tanser has been linked with a winter move to the Stadium of Light and Barnsley - but says the interest is ‘just speculation’. (The Herald)

Lee Johnson says it’s proving ‘very difficult’ for Sunderland to conduct their transfer business this month. He said: “We’re very close to having at least one through the door, and ideally we get to two or three in this window.” (Sunderland Echo)

Reported Newcastle United target Siriki Dembele will be granted his wish to leave Peterborough United eventually, according to pundit Sam Parkin.

The 24-year-old has been in impressive form for the League One outfit this term, and it is understood that he has handed in a transfer request in Cambridgeshire as he looks to push through a move in the coming weeks.

St James’ Park has been touted as one potential destination for the player, with a number of other sides, including Celtic, Rangers, Fulham, and Stoke City also said to be keen on the attacker. (Sky Sports)