Evans above, Cats close to a deal for Royals’ ace
SUNDERLAND are closing in on midfielder George Evans after Reading accepted a six-figure offer from the Black Cats.
Jack Ross has identified the 23-year-old defensive-minded midfielder as an ideal man to bring energy to the centre of the park.
The Royals are somewhat overloaded in the midfield department after ex-Sunderland man David Meyler joined this summer - and Evans has fallen down the pecking order as a result.
He is due on Wearside to discuss personal terms and undergo a medical ahead of the move.
The Manchester City academy graduate has League One experience after loan spells at Crewe, Walsall and Scunthorpe but has played the majority of his football in the Championship, having joined Reading in January 2016.
In 2016-17 he made 30 league appearances for Jaap Stam’s side and then played all three play-off games as they missed out on Premier League promotion to Huddersfield at Wembley.
Evans’ semi-final performances against Fulham were particularly appreciated, however, as he stuck to the task of nullifying Tom Cairney over the two legs.
He was out of favour last term, making just 18 appearances. With just a year left on his contract, new boss Paul Clement has decided to cash in for less than £1m. Although not much a threat going forward, Evans will provide a cover for the Black Cats’ back four, sweeping up in front of them in the defensive midfield role. At 23, there is still plenty of time for him to develop further still, while Sunderland also know he is capable of playing in the second tier next season - should they achieve their goal of promotion this term.
Elsewhere, Wahbi Khazri’s Sunderland departure could finally be sealed today.
The Tunisian international is closing in on his move to St Etienne, having cancelled his holiday to ensure his move to the French club went through.
Sunderland are expected to receive around £7m for the winger while also getting his wage off the books.
That should allow them to press on with their own additions ahead of the new campaign.
Owner Stewart Donald says he still hopes to add six new players, complementing the six already signed this summer.
At least two are expected to be strikers, an initial offer for Bradford’s Charlie Wyke turned down but negotiations ongoing.
Meanwhile, it is likely Ross will look to add another two centre-backs too.
Sunderland target Wyke was in the stands for Bradford’s pre-season friendly victory over York on Saturday.
Speculation continues to mount over his future at Valley Parade.
The Black Cats have had an initial offer rejected for the 25-year-old striker, while Bolton and Peterborough are also said to be interested.