John McGinn and Grant Leadbitter would give Sunderland League One’s best midfield

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League One Sunderland are reportedly targeting Hibernian’s John McGinn and Middlesbrough’s Grant Leadbitter.

Could Sunderland have the best midfield in the third tier next season? In truth, if they pull off deals for two new transfer targets, the Black Cats will boast one of the greatest central midfield partnerships in recent League One history.

According to The Scottish Sun, new Sunderland manager Jack Ross is hoping to bring John McGinn to Wearside this summer in what would be a deal worth around £3 million.

McGinn has been one of the most impressive talents in Scotland over the last two years. He won the Player of the Year award as Hibernian cruised to the the Championship title in 2017 before starring as Neil Lennon’s side finished fourth in their first season back in the top flight.

And TEAMtalk are now reporting that Sunderland are also hoping to lure Grant Leadbitter back to the Stadium of Light. The 32-year-old, who began his career on Wearside, will be allowed to leave North East rivals Middlesbrough on a cut-price deal this summer.

Now, these would be two eye-catching deals that show Sunderland, who now boast a budget numerous Championship teams would be proud of according to new owner Stewart Donald, mean business.

McGinn, who is also a target for Scottish Premiership champions Celtic as well as a couple of Premier League sides, would perhaps be League One’s most natural talent. Leadbitter, meanwhile, is also on the radar of a number of Championship clubs and still has the ability to play at a high level.

So just imagine if Sunderland can pair Leadbitter and McGinn together next season. These two could take League One by storm.