Sunderland are taking a look at non-league talent Sam Smart.
Sunderland have taken former Newcastle defender David Edgar on trial, but he isn’t the only player attempting to impress manager Jack Ross.
The Black Cats could hand Edgar a deal in the near future, and another trialist took part in Monday’s 3-1 Under-23 defeat to local rivals Middlesbrough.
Basingstoke Town youngster Sam Smart featured for Sunderland, and made a real impression having won a penalty for the Black Cats in his first appearance.
The 20-year-old has been a goal machine for Basingstoke, hitting 20 goals and 28 assists in 41 games for the club last season, according to Football Wonderkids.
Over the summer, Smart went on trial with Championship side Sheffield Wednesday in the hope of winning a deal, and he is thought to still be on the Owls’ radar.
Sunderland are now attempting to swoop in and take a close look at Smart ahead of the January transfer window, potentially adding a versatile forward to Ross’s options.
Smart could be a clever move for Sunderland; a low-risk signing with huge potential, and beating Wednesday to his signature would be a real boost too.
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