Sean Dyche has confirmed to Lancs Live that Sunderland target Ali Koiki is set to leave Burnley, although Bristol Rovers is his most likely destination at present.
There are just over 24 hours left in the transfer window and the Black Cats still haven’t found the new left-back they have been seeking for about six months now.
But it is not over yet.
The Chronicle reported earlier this month that Sunderland were taking an interest in Koiki after the 21-year-old turned down the chance to extend his contract at Turf Moor.
And while third-tier rivals Bristol Rovers are in pole position right now, there is still time for Phil Parkinson’s side to step up their interest in a player who would not cost a penny in transfer fees and also shouldn’t infringe on the EFL-imposed salary cap.
Speaking ahead of Burnley’s Premier League clash with West Brom on Monday, Dyche has admitted that Koiki is likely to have a new club before the weekend.
“That is in the offing so we will wait and see if that gets done,” he said.
An attack-minded left-back who produced ten goals for Burnley’s U23 side in 2019/20, Koiki does have some senior experience under his belt thanks to a 15-game loan spell at Swindon Town.
As it stands, Denver Hume is the only natural, senior left-sided full-back in Sunderland’s squad.
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