Sunderland are set to announce the signing of Burnley defender Jimmy Dunne, on loan for the rest of the season.

As reported in the Shields Gazette, Jack Ross spoke after his side’s emphatic 4-0 win over the U21s side of bitter rivals Newcastle United to confirm an announcement is imminent.

The Irish defender had been impressive on loan at Hearts earlier in the season before being recalled by the Premier League side last week as he recovered from injury.

Discussing the move to the media after the match, via the Sheilds Gazette, Ross opened up on the player speculation.

"I would hope that in the next 24 hours we would be able to confirm an addition defensively," Ross said.

"I've always said until it's done, dusted, registered [I'll be cautious] but I'm hopeful that will be the case.”

Dunne arriving will boost Ross’ options at the back ahead of a top-of-the-table clash with Luton Town this weekend before heading into a busy second half of the season as Sunderland look to make it back to the Championship at the first attempt.

The verdict

Despite the lack of official announcement, Jack Ross has seemingly confirmed the imminent arrival of the Burnley defender.

He knows how to get promotion in the EFL having done so with Accrington Stanley last season, and having impressed, went to the SPL with Hearts.

Jimmy Dunne is highly rated and that shows with the club he went to after last season’s heroics.

Dunne will add plenty of competition at the back for Ross’ side and could well be the difference at the back between the top two and having to make do with the play-offs.

It’s a shrewd move for Sunderland to sign Dunne, and one that I am sure will pay dividends immediately.