Sunderland and Aston Villa are both expected to be busy during the transfer window.
Steve Bruce is desperate to bring a central midfielder to Villa Park this summer, with the Birmingham Mail reporting that Everton’s James McCarthy tops his wish-list.
The £20 million being quoted to secure his services though seems extortionate to say the very least, and Bruce might well be better of in pursuing other avenues.
One interesting option could be Black Cats midfielder Jack Rodwell, and with the Wearside outfit on the look-out for another striker, Villa could offer them Ross McCormack in return.
Despite the fact that both players operate in entirely different positions, it could be a deal that suits all parties concerned.
Sunderland’s Jack Rodwell
Rodwell, 26, was one of the brightest prospects in English football a decade ago, but he has never truly hit the heights expected of him, and a move to the Midlands to link up with Villa could be just what he needs.
He is physically strong, capable in the air, and has an impressive array of passing skills. He would be the ideal addition to Steve Bruce’s midfield, what with the current lack of any kind of physical presence in the middle of the park.
McCormick, on the other hand, could be just as useful for Sunderland as Rodwell might be for Villa.
The Scot, 30, has badly flopped since joining the Villans last summer from Fulham, but it could be argued that he needs a change of scenery to help reinvigorate his career.
He is a clinical finisher when presented with a chance in front of goal – something that the Black Cats will need when Jermain Defoe leaves for pastures new.
It could also be argued that the former Leeds United man will have a huge point to prove if he leaves Villa, as will Rodwell, both of whom have been criticised for their professionalism throughout their careers.
McCormack and Rodwell obviously come with baggage, but the beauty of a swap deal involving the two players means that there will be no financial outlay, and hence not much of a risk as such.
And it could turn out to be a transfer of real significance for all parties involved.
Aston Villa’s Ross McCormack reacts
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