Sunderland and Leeds United are keen on signing Tommy Elphick.
According to reports from The Birmingham Mail, Sunderland are keen on signing Aston Villa defender Tommy Elphick, this summer.
The report claims that the Black Cats have emerged as strong rivals to Birmingham City, who have also shown an interest in signing the 29-year-old centre-back.
Aston Villa’s Sam Johnstone and Tommy Elphick look dejected at the final whistle
Sunderland see Elphick as an ideal replacement for Lamine Kone, who are they are willing to let go for around £8 million. A formal bid is expected from Sunderland for Elphick within next week.
Elphick, who joined Villa in 2016, was expected to become the defensive lynchpin for his side. However, it didn’t work out well at Villa Park under Steve Bruce.
Last season, he made 26 appearances for Villa, starting in 20 of them. However, he could be allowed to leave this summer, especially after the arrival of John Terry.
The report also adds that Championship rivals Leeds United are also interested in signing the player, who hasn’t featured for Villa this pre-season as he is thought to be carrying a minor injury.
Having captained both at Bournemouth and Leeds, his leadership qualities would come handy for both Sunderland and Leeds.
Aston Villa’s Tommy Elphick celebrates after Rudy Gestede scored their second goal
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