Sunderland are keen to sign free agent Ali Koiki after the youngster rejected the chance to sign a new contract at Premier League Burnley, according to The Chronicle.
If the Black Cats were approaching the summer transfer window with a new goalkeeper, a couple of forwards and a centre-back or two on their wish list, they can give themselves an almighty pat on the back.
Sunderland have succeeded in bringing in proven League One talent in the shape of Remi Matthews, Bailey Wright, Danny Graham and Aiden O’Brien – without spending a single penny in transfer fees.
But one area of Phil Parkinson’s squad still needs strengthening.
The electrifying Denver Hume remains the only natural-born left-back in Sunderland’s first-team ranks – and that doesn’t bode well for a gruelling 46-game season.
Fortunately, Sunderland are under little pressure to tie-up a deal for Koiki before 5pm on Monday afternoon.
The 21-year-old is a free agent and is therefore not bound by the transfer deadline.
Koiki, a one-time Crystal Palace youngster, turned down a new contract at Burnley last month as he wants to make the transition from U23 football to the senior game.
Sunderland would offer him the opportunity to do exactly that.
The Wearsiders, who have picked up seven points from a possible nine this season, have already signed three former Burnley starlets this year in Ollie Younger, Will Harris and Vinnie Steels.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
