Sunderland backed to reignite Yates pursuit after £2m transfer reveal - Phillips
Kevin Phillips has backed Sunderland to make a summer move for Blackpool goal machine Jerry Yates.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the Stadium of Light legend claimed the 24-year-old would be a "great signing" for Lee Johnson's side this summer even if he cost £2million.
Yates has been one of League One's standout performers this season, with 22 goals in 51 appearances across all competitions.
Football Insider revealed last summer that the Black Cats were keeping tabs on the centre-forward prior to his move from Rotherham to Blackpool.
Championship trio Blackburn Rovers, Nottingham Forest and Bristol City are all monitoring Yates, who is valued at around £2million, ahead of the summer.
When asked by Football Insider's Dylan Childs if Sunderland should reignite their interest in the striker with Charlie Wyke's future on Wearside uncertain, Phillips said:
"I think he would be a great signing, I really do.
"I watched him live a couple of weeks ago up at Rochdale and he impressed me. He was a real handful and made some really good runs. I have been lucky enough to watch a fair bit of him this season and I like what I see.
"He might cost £2million and not get any goals but I think there is something in this young player.
"The types of goals he scores, the runs he makes and his work rate. He has an incredible hunger to make things happen.
"I could see him being a big success at Sunderland if he was to come there. He is only 24 as well which is a great age."