Sunderland are plotting a move for Jamie Sterry, according to reports from North East Sport News.

The Black Cats are looking to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season and as a result they're casting their net far and wide in search of new additions.

One position where Lee Johnson is looking to strengthen is at right-back and that's why a move for the Hartlepool United man could have some substance.

Sterry started his career with Newcastle United before enjoying loan spell with Coventry City and Crewe Alexandra before moving on to South Shields.

However in December last year the 25-year-old moved to Hartlepool in the National League where he played a key role in helping the club to secure promotion back to the EFL after several years away.

Sterry is out of contract at the end of June and with interest building in his services it remains to be seen where his long-term future will lie, however Sunderland aren't the only club that are said to be keen.

Oldham Athletic, Walsall and Bolton Wanderers are also interested in a move for the player who reportedly has aspirations to play in the Championship or League One.

The verdict

This could be a very smart move for Sunderland.

Lee Johnson is looking for an attack-minded right-back to come in and replace Conor McLaughlin and Jamie Sterry could be the man to fill that spot.

The former Newcastle youngster is someone who is more than capable of playing for a club that are challenging for promotion from League One, but with interest building in his services, it means that a move to Wearside could be tough to pull off.

It's also worth noting that Hartlepool United will be keen to keep the play and so this is going to be an interesting one to keep an eye on.