Report: Former Newcastle star to have controversial medical at north-east rivals

By Harvey Byrne

Davide Santon is set to join Sunderland from Inter Milan with only an impending medical between a return to the north-east, according to a report.

The Guardian claim that the left-back, who spent four-years at rivals Newcastle is set to have a medical with the Black Cats, ahead of a £4million move.

The left-back left Newcastle just 18 months a go, but is set for a controversial return to their rivals and there is no love lost in the Tyne-Wear derby.

The left-back helped the Magpies to a fifth placed finish in his first season in the Premier League as he starred in 27 encounters in all competitions for the north east club.

The full-back also played six games during their Europa League campaign in the 2012-13 season.

He eventually fell out of favour with then manager Alan Pardew at St James' Park and was allowed to depart for Inter, initially on a loan.

The eight-time Italy international has many honours to his name and has won the Champions League, Serie A, Italian Cup and Fifa Club World Cup.

In other Newcastle news, the Mapgies have made contact with Blackburn as they look to sign Grant Hanley.