Sunderland have stepped up their interest in Sheffield United midfielder Oliver Norwood, although they are one of several Championship clubs keen on acquiring his services.
Having made over 250 appearances for the Blades, it was announced last week that his six-year stay at Bramall Lane would come to a close at the end of the season. Although he wasn’t involved in yesterday’s 3-0 defeat by Tottenham Hotspur, the former Northern Ireland international was given the chance to say goodbye as the Yorkshire based side also said farewell to the Premier League.
Beginning the campaign as part of the starting XI, Norwood fell out of favour during the second half of the season. However, he did score the winning goal in the club’s first victory of the season against Wolverhampton Wanderers in November.
He is a player who is well-versed when it comes to getting out of the Championship. He has achieved promotion from the second tier on four occasions, twice with Sheffield United and one apiece with Brighton & Hove Albion and Fulham respectively. As a result, it is no surprise to see a number of clubs lining up for his signature.
According to Football Insider, Sunderland are one of three teams from the division to already register their interest in the 33-year-old alongside Hull City and Watford. The Black Cats, although managerless, are looking to add experienced cover to their squad as they look to better their disappointing 16th-placed finish this season. Norwood is a wanted man though, with several clubs from the MLS also keen.
Whilst new signings are expected, a permanent successor to Michael Beale, who departed the Stadium of Light is February, is top of the agenda. It is said that the club are hoping to make an appointment in the coming weeks, with former Hull boss Liam Rosenior fast becoming the frontrunner.
Writer’s View
Ollie Norwood would be an excellent addition to any Championship squad and there is sure to be a battle for his signature. Sunderland are desperate to return to the Premier League and bringing in someone who has achieved that on numerous occasions is a no-brainer.
The midfielder possesses an excellent passing ability and is capable of pulling the strings in the centre of the park. Being able to build around him alongside the likes of Dan Neil would see a serious increase in quality on the pitch. However, Hull are just as ambitious whilst not far from his current stamping ground, so could prove to be more appealing.
