Sunderland could be making wholesale changes this summer with a number of new signings expected to arrive.

One player who has been linked with a move to the Stadium Of Light is Nathan Baxter who is a summer target for Lee Johnson's side, according to reports from Football Insider.

The Chelsea goalkeeper has spent the last season on loan with League One side Accrington Stanley where he made 18 appearances for the club.

At 22 years of age Baxter is at a key point in his career, and with Sunderland said to be open to a permanent or loan move, it could give him a decision to make.

Here we take a detailed look at the link to assess his suitability as a new signing for the Black Cats.

 

 

Is it a good potential move?

There's no doubt that Nathan Baxter is an excellent young goalkeeper.

The Chelsea man has picked up some real experience despite his tender years after loan spells with Woking, Yeovil Town, Ross County and Accrington Stanley to his name.

If this is a permanent signing with a view to the future then I've got no doubt that this would be a good signing.

Would he start?

It's hard to see Nathan Baxter breaking straight into Sunderland's starting XI.

Lee Burge is still under contract with the Black Cats for another season and after establishing himself as the club's number one goalkeeper, it seems that the spot is very much his to lose at the moment.

That said, the 22-year-old is not one to back down from a challenge and with Burge linked with a move away in recent months, there's nothing to suggest that Baxter would be fringe option.

What does he offer?

Having seen him in action numerous times, Nathan Baxter is a very assured presence for his age.

The 22-year-old has made over 100 professional appearances so far in his career, meaning that he's far from just being a high-potential talent.

A towering presence between the sticks, the Chelsea man also has great reflexes which would make him a real all-round asset for Sunderland if he was to be brought in as a first team option for Lee Johnson's side.