Sunderland are set to receive another Brighton and Hove Albion bid for Paddy McNair this week, with the Premier League club desperate to seal a deal for the midfielder.

McNair has emerged as a Brighton target, with the Seagulls in hot pursuit of the midfielder over the course of the last week.

Sunderland have rejected an offer from Brighton, but the Premier League club are set to return with an improved bid.

According to the Northern Echo, Brighton will raise their bid to £5m in an attempt to lure McNair out of the Stadium of Light, as Sunderland prepare for life in League One.

It remains unclear if that fee, with a bulk of it to be paid up front, will be enough to tempt Sunderland into selling the 23-year-old.

McNair, a regular Northern Ireland international, impressed for Sunderland during the closing stage of the Championship season, despite their relegation to the third-tier.

The 23-year-old midfielder featured on 16 occasions in the Championship last season, scoring five goals, including four in his final five appearances of the campaign.

McNair begin his career in the Premier League with Manchester United. 

The Verdict

Brighton’s interest in McNair is clearly strong, with the Seagulls desperate to get a deal over the line for the midfielder.

McNair’s form, particularly in April and May, has been terrific, despite Sunderland’s struggles.

Sunderland will know his value and it will be interesting to see if they sell for the reported £5m.

To Sunderland, who are heading for League One, McNair could be worth more.

Sunderland fans… Let us know your thoughts!