Sunderland set to tie up deal for free agent striker, he wants to revive his career – report
Sunderland are close to completing a deal to sign free agent striker Aaron Connolly, according to the Irish Independent.
Aidan Fitzmaurice’s report [23 September] details that the Republic of Ireland man is ready to accept a contract at the Stadium of Light after his release by Hull City at the end of last season.
Connolly will be looking to revive his career having endured an uncertain time both on and off the field, hopping between clubs, though he did score 10 goals in 33 league appearances across 18 months for the Tigers.
A deal would reunite the former Brighton & Hove Albion man with international teammate Alan Browne, who signed in the summer on another free transfer.
Sunderland close to Aaron Connolly deal
Sunderland have appeared to remain in the hunt for a striker proven at Championship level, having signed several attacking players late in the transfer window.
Wilson Isidor looks as if he will be utilised more out wide by Regis Le Bris, while youngster Ahmed Abdullahi will require time to settle and his nursing a lengthy injury [Northern Echo, 12 September].
Connolly has had plenty of doubters and has been considered unreliable during his career, blighting the fact he is a tremendous player on his day and can certainly be effective in a free-flowing Black Cats team.
The nine-cap international is still just 24 and played 45 times in the Premier League with Brighton, scoring five goals.
After a quartet of loans both domestically and abroad, he was handed just a one-year deal at Hull which has now expired, and it looks as if Regis Le Bris is prepared to give him the chance that could turn the screw for his career.
In other Sunderland news, Manchester United step up their Chris Rigg interest after his match-winning display against Middlesbrough.
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