Sunderland midfielder transfer talks confirmed as director of football issues update
Sunderland look set for a busy summer regardless of whether or not they win promotion to the Premier League.
The Mackems have impressed in the Championship season, with Regis Le Bris’ side making it to the play-off final, which takes place on 24 May.
They face Sheffield United under the Wembley arches, with the winner securing promotion to the Premier League.
Chris Wilder’s side recorded a 90-point tally, with two losses in their final five games costing them automatic promotion to rivals Leeds and Burnley, who reached 100 points.
Sunderland finished 14 points adrift from their opponents, with the losing side set for transfer misery as they face a battle to keep hold of their best players.
Hibs sporting director Malky Mackay big admirer of Sunderland youngster
A player who could be out the door is 22-year-old Australian midfielder Nectarios Triantis, who has been linked with a permanent move to Hibernian after a successful loan spell in Scotland.
Easter Road sporting director Malky Mackay told Scottish Football Social Club on Premier Sports: “We love him – but unfortunately he’s not our player. So we’ll certainly be talking in chat to him and Sunderland over the next period.
“Nectar has done terrifically well at the football club. He came in as a centre-back for six months last season, and David looked at him near the end of the season and put him in midfield for a couple of games.
“He’s a Sunderland player and that at the end of the day is what he is. We would love to try and get him back in one shape or another.”
The youngster impressed at Hibs, scoring three goals and providing six assists for the side, which finished third in the Scottish Premiership.
Sunderland transfer dilemma
If the Mackems do sell the Australian, they risk leaving themselves short, with fellow midfielders Chris Rigg and Dan Neil subject to interest from elsewhere.
Sunderland are already expecting a busy transfer window this summer, with 19-year-old Jobe Bellingham set for a move away from the club.
Triantis was nominated for the Scottish Writers’ Association player of the year award this season, and Hibs manager David Gray is keen on keeping the youngster.
The Stadium of Light outfit could hinder Triantis’ future if they decide to keep him, but could also hinder their progress if they let him leave.
Hibs are expected to be happy to pay a fee for the player or re-sign him on loan, but will wait for Sunderland to make a decision on the Australian’s future.