Sunderland are keeping a close eye on Crawley Town forward Tom Nichols ahead of a potential summer move for the League Two forward, as reported by the Chronicle.
With his contract due to expire at the end of 2020/21, it seems only a matter of time before the Red Devils are bidding farewell to one of the most technically gifted forwards in the fourth tier.
But at least Crawley, who lost top-scorer Max Watters to Cardiff City in January, will be able to call on Nichols’ craft, guile and clinical finishing skills for a few more months.
According to reports in the North East, Watters’ former strike partner also has admirers higher up the Football League pyramid.
The Chronicle claims that Sunderland have been watching the skilful 27-year-old ahead of a bargain summer swoop.
Nichols, a former Peterborough United and Bristol Rovers ace, has produced 11 goals and six assists this season.
While Sunderland fans will have to wait a few more months to see Nichols arrive, the Black Cats faithful can certainly be happy with their January activity.
In Carl Winchester, Lee Johnson succeeded in snapping up a reliable, versatile performer capable of filling in at right-back or in midfield.
Southampton loanee Jake Vokins will take the place of the injured Denver Hume on the left-hand side while Jordan Jones and Ross Stewart have arrived from Scotland to ease the attacking burden on top-scorer Charlie Wyke.
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