Sunderland ready £25.3m Joe Gomez transfer as Liverpool stance shared

Sunderland are understood to have identified Joe Gomez as a potential recruit this summer.

The Black Cats won't need anyone to tell them this, but recruitment this summer is going to play a massive role in deciding the success they achieve as they prepare for life back in the Premier League.

New wingers and full-backs are expected to be a priority for Sunderland, with the latter likely a result of Dennis Cirkin's continued injury troubles.

However, Régis Le Bris will undoubtedly be keen to bolster his squad wherever possible, and the latest update from Anfield may provide him with the opportunity to do that.

Liverpool prepared to sanction Gomez's exit

Sunderland's defence stood strong in the Championship for the most part, but an injection of quality will be needed as they make the step up to the top flight.

With Chris Mepham returning to Bournemouth as it stands, the Mackems are in desperate need of a new centre half, with a report from Empire of the Kop (2 June) stating that Sunderland are one of eight clubs keen on Gomez.

The Englishman has fallen down the pecking order at Liverpool, and it is believed that the Reds would sanction his exit this summer if the right deal emerges.

FSG are said to have set a £25.3million price tag on the 28-year-old, with West Ham and Leeds also among those credited with an interest.

Gomez links showcase flexibility in Sunderland model

Sunderland's transfer strategy in the Championship has been to recruit young players and develop them through gametime, but that certainly has its risks.

The Black Cats are going to need to adapt that slightly this summer if they are to have a chance of surviving in the Premier League, and links to Jordan Henderson and Gomez suggest they are going to.

Premier League experience will be crucial, and if the Black Cats can find that through signings who also improve their starting 11, it's a win-win situation.