Sunderland and Charlton are both staking strong claims to win promotion back into the Championship this season.

But if either side isn’t to win promotion back into England’s second tier, then they might be wondering what could have been if they had a certain player in their midfield.

Erhun Oztumer has been linked with a move to both clubs earlier this season (according to Sky Sports) and it certainly wouldn’t come as a surprise to see both sides renewing their interest in the Bolton midfielder.

It seems highly unlikely that he will remain with the financially-stricken club for much longer, and if they are to be relegated to League One, then it’s likely that we’ll see a mass exodus at the University of Bolton stadium.

Oztumer has already proven that he can cut it in the Championship and both Sunderland and Charlton should be keeping tabs on his progress in the summer, with his future likely to be up in the air with Bolton.

The 27-year-old has made 16 appearances for the Trotters this season but has struggled to make a significant impact as they edge closer to relegation into League One.

Technically and on the ball, Oztumer is one of the best players for Phil Parkinson’s side and I would be stunned to see him remain with the club in the summer if they are to be relegated from the Championship.

Both Sunderland and Charlton could both benefit from having players in their teams that know the Championship well, and Oztumer fits into that category perfectly.

He's proven that he can score goals and be on hand to provide assists in his time with both Bolton and Walsall.

Oztumer had previously scored 32 goals in 95 appearances for the Saddlers before making the move to Bolton, which hasn't turned out to what he would have hoped.

A move to the Stadium of Light seems more likely at this moment in time, as Jack Ross' side are looking like they will make an immediate return to the Championship next season, whereas, Charlton will have to make do with the lottery of the play-offs.

One thing that seems difficult to see though, is the possibility of Oztumer remaining with Bolton, with his future at the club looking in doubt, especially if they are to be relegated this season.