Sunderland reportedly close to signing Reading defender George Evans

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Sunderland are looking to bolster their squad ahead of a vital season in League One next term, with defenders being one of the main priorities.

According to the Sunderland Echo, Sunderland look close to signing 23-year-old Reading central defender George Evans, as new Sunderland manager Jack Ross continues to ensure his squad is good enough for League One next season.

The Black Cats are attempting to return to the Championship at the first time of asking next month and, with several of last season’s players having already departed Wearside, 42-year-old Ross will be keen to bolster his squad.

High on the transfer priority list is Sunderland’s defensive line, with former Captain John O’shea having already left the club and other defenders including Lamine Kone looking set to leave the Black Cats.

And with the potential signing of Evans, Sunderland will have made strides in this summer’s transfer window from a defensive perspective.

Evans joined the Royals in 2016 and has made 46 appearances with the Championship Club but, after an excellent season that almost ended in promotion to the Premier League in 2017, Evans fell down the pecking order.

Sunderland’s reasoning for pursuing Evans’ signature is clear, with the former Manchester City man also having the ability to play in central midfield.

But with the arrival of former Sunderland midfielder David Meyler at Reading, Evans’ time with the side he has spent two years at looks like it is close to an end.

However, Reading’s loss is certainly Sunderland’s gain, with the player showing previously that he is an established footballer at Championship level, meaning he will be an excellent addition to Sunderland’s League One side.

Evans also offers healthy competition for places in both the heart of Sunderland’s defence and the centre of midfield, with many of the Sunderland faithful suggesting last season’s Championship downfall was partly down to the lack of strength in depth in former Black Cats manager Chris Coleman’s squad.

Evans also offers Sunderland experience and knowledge of the lower leagues of English football, having spent time on loan with Scunthorpe United, Walsall and Crewe Alexandra.

A former England Under-19 international, Evans gives Sunderland an excellent defensive stability going into one of the clubs biggest season’s in their recent history.

And with the clear need for players with past experience of the lower leagues, as well as the ability to ensure promotion, Sunderland’s signing of Evans is certainly one that will only be beneficial for next season.