Sources: Sunderland in advanced talks to sign Hume after six-figure bid submitted
Sunderland are in advanced talks to sign Linfield sensation Trai Hume, Football Insider understands.
The League One promotion hopefuls are closing in on the Northern Ireland Under-21 international following the opening of the window.
A Sunderland source has told Football Insider that the club have submitted a bid in excess of £200,000 for Hume.
The 19-year-old was in attendance at Sunderland’s game against Sheffield Wednesday at the Stadium of Light last week.
It is expected by those close to the deal that Hume will now go on to complete a move to Wearside in this month’s transfer window.
That would be a blow to other suitors of the youngster, who has also been strongly linked with Lincoln City.
Sunderland have been working on a deal while also finalising a move for Man City attacker Patrick Roberts.
Football Insider broke the news last Friday (31 December) that the Black Cats are close to signing Roberts, 24, on loan for the second half of the season.
He is set to terminate his loan deal at French top-flight team Troyes to head to the Stadium of Light.
He will immediately strengthen their attacking options, while Hume is a right-back who can also slot in at centre-back and in midfield.
The teenager has made 17 league appearances among 24 in all competitions this season, mostly played at right-back.
Linfield manager David Healy has admitted that Hume is unlikely to be at his club after the January window shuts.
In other news, Sunderland are close to blockbuster signing.