Sunderland’s relegation could spark interest in their players from higher division clubs such as Sheffield Wednesday and Stoke City.
Sunderland have not had any contact from Sheffield Wednesday regarding midfielder George Honeyman, according to Mackems owner Stewart Donald.
The Sun on Sunday credited Wednesday with interest in Honeyman in the wake of Sunderland’s relegation.
But when asked on Twitter if there is any truth to the rumours of a move to Hillsborough – as well as a potential Stoke City switch for another Mackems midfielder, Lee Cattermole – Donald affirmed: “We have not been contacted by either club.”
Honeyman scored in both of Sunderland’s games against Sheffield Wednesday last season, and would be an attractive option for the Owls should they lose Sean Clare at the end of his contract, as expected.
Wednesday, though, are thought to have to sell before they can buy this summer, amid mounting debts, with Stoke among the clubs keen on Hillsborough forward Fernando Forestieri, according to the Star.
Donald insisted earlier this month that Sunderland are not in the same boat, despite claims on the contrary from manager Jack Ross and head of recruitment Tony Coton.
Sunderland will host Sheffield Wednesday in the Carabao Cup first round in August.
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