This article is part of Football FanCast’s Transfer Focus series, which provides opinion and analysis on recent transfer news…
Sunderland are interested in a loan deal for West Brom’s Rayhaan Tulloch, according to the Daily Mail.
What’s the word?
Tulloch is making a name for himself as a hot prospect at the Baggies, while he has also been recognised with international call-ups to England U18s previously.
West Brom have an array of attacking talent and are sitting high at the top of the Championship, so could be willing to let him leave on loan, and that is what the Black Cats are currently pursuing.
However, they could face competition for the transfer from Stoke, Wigan and Leeds, all of whom are also reportedly interested in the 18-year-old.
The interest doesn’t stop there, either, as he is attracting attention from several Premier League clubs, including Aston Villa, Newcastle and Southampton.
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Freshening up attack
Sunderland and Phil Parkinson are certainly in a tricky situation and the January transfer window could be make or break for the latter, who is already under immense pressure from fans.
Many believe he should be relieved of his duties but it is possible that he will be given more time to prove himself, and the opportunity to bring in his own players could be vital.
There is a clear need for goals as Sunderland have only scored 13 in 12 games since Parkinson took over, and Tulloch would be able to provide an injection of energy and pace, and possibly goals too.
He has four strikes in nine appearances in Premier League 2 for West Brom U23s, some of which have come from the wing.
His ability to play up-front or out wide could make him a valuable option for Parkinson, as they are two areas in which players like Will Grigg and Duncan Watmore are struggling to find form.
It is a gamble to bring Tulloch in but he is clearly highly rated by several clubs in the EFL, and as a young player currently rising through the ranks, he should have the attitude to make him a perfect fit in the north-east.
The transfer window is a vital period for Sunderland and the resignation of Charlie Methven could end up causing significant change around the club.
