Sunderland are targeting Aston Villa’s Micah Richards, which could have implications for their interest in Tottenham Hotspur’s DeAndre Yedlin.
Aston Villa’s Micah Richards looks dejected
Sunderland are closing in on the signing of Aston Villa’s Micah Richards, with the Daily Star reporting they are planning to meet his release clause.
Aston Villa fans would not be disappointed to see the back of Richards after a turbulent campaign, and he too would surely benefit from a fresh start.
One player who could be affected by a potential move is Tottenham full-back DeAndre Yedlin, who had a successful spell at Sunderland on loan last season.
Former Sunderland loanee DeAndre Yedlin
The Mail reported earlier this month that Sunderland were pursuing a deal, but were struggling to agree a price with Tottenham.
Micah Richards is able to play at both centre-back and right-back, and dependent on where he is picked by David Moyes, could affect potential plans for Yedlin.
Last season Richards was used mainly as a centre-back, without success, and a switch over to right-back where he enjoyed his best spell with Manchester City could be the answer.
Aston Villa’s Micah Richards celebrates scoring
Sunderland’s success late last season was based on a solid partnership between Lamine Kone and Younes Kaboul, and while Richards could be cover, he may find his playing opportunities are greater at right-back.
Yedlin has since gone on pre-season tour with Spurs to Australia, where he has a chance to impress head coach Mauricio Pochettino.
His potential move to Sunderland seems a way off now, and while the situation could circle back later in the transfer window, if he can’t claim a first team spot at Spurs for next season, he may have to find another alternative – which is not Sunderland.
DeAndre Yedlin in action for USA
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