Burnley ready to blow Sunderland out of water to seal £8m new signing
Sunderland have been one of the most active suitors in the transfer market.
After sealing their return to the Premier League in May with a 2-1 victory over Sheffield United in the play-off final, the Black Cats have shown the intent needed to stay in the top flight.
Sunderland have signed six different players so far, spending almost £100million in the process, with a seventh, Sassuolo forward Armand Lauriente, falling through at the last minute.
The Wearsiders' ability to quickly seal deals has been admirable this summer, with Granit Xhaka being the next big target Sunderland are looking to sign.
However, another target looks to have been stolen from them by another promoted side.
Burnley ready to buy Sam Johnstone
Sunderland's shortlist included Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper Sam Johnstone, but it appears they were unsuccessful in their efforts to secure his services.
Alan Nixon (27 July) has reported via his Patreon that Burnley have made Johnstone their top goalkeeper target this summer.
The Clarets are looking for a new shot-stopper as James Trafford looks set to complete his return to Manchester City.
Wolves are looking for £8m for Johnstone's signature, who endured a tough season at Molineux.
Sunderland have been tracking the Englishman for several weeks but have begun to move on to other targets, with Shakhtar Donetsk goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk linked.
Sunderland don't need Johnstone
The Black Cats need a goalkeeper to challenge Anthony Patterson's number one shirt next season.
However, Johnstone is not good enough to fill that role, after being dropped from the Wolves starting 11 just five games into his spell at Molineux.
| Competition | Appearances | Clean sheets | Goals conceded | Save percentage |
| Premier League | 7 | 0 | 17 | 61.5% |
With younger options available with a better ability to challenge Patterson, Sunderland are right to turn their attention away from the ex-West Bromwich Albion man.
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