The Italian appears to be on the verge of leaving Sunderland, and will need to be replaced.
Sunderland look set to lose another one of their goalkeepers, after accepting an offer for Vito Mannone from Reading.
The Italian is said to be keen on the move, which will provide him with the security of a longer-term contract than the one he is currently on at the Stadium of Light.
With only their previous third choice, Mika, and youngster Max Stryjek left to call upon, Sunderland can be expected to seek reinforcements over the coming weeks.
But to whom could Simon Grayson turn?
Option A: Someone he’s worked with before
Preston North End’s Chris Maxwell had never played above the third tier until Grayson signed him from Fleetwood Town last summer. But after spending only eight games as second choice, the 26-year-old was thrown into the Lilywhites’ starting eleven and has remained there ever since. Preston signed Declan Rudd as competition for Maxwell prior to Grayson’s departure, so losing him would perhaps not be too much of a blow. And a move to a club of Sunderland’s stature could be tempting.
Alternatively, how about Alex Smithies at Queens Park Rangers?
Option B: Someone he’s been linked with already
Robert Green’s Leeds United position is under threat following Felix Wiedwald’s arrival from Werder Bremen and, according to The Yorkshire Evening Post, the former England number one could ask to leave in the event that he is demoted to second choice, in which case Leeds would be open to offers. That could well encourage an approach from Sunderland, for whom a bit of experience at the back would perhaps not go amiss.
Alternatively, how about Tomasz Kuszczak at Birmingham City?
Option C: Someone out of favour at a Premier League club
Joe Hart’s arrival at West Ham United has put the futures of Adrian and teammate Darren Randolph in doubt, and both perhaps would be suitable candidates here. However, with the Hammers already snubbing Middlesbrough’s attempts to sign the latter, it could be Adrian who is most likely to depart the London Stadium – especially after Wednesday’s Twitter outburst in response to West Ham co-chairman, David Sullivan. Nevertheless, the Spaniard could have interest back home, and is unlikely to come cheap.
Alternatively, how about Artur Boruc at Bournemouth?
Who should replace Mannone at Sunderland?
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