Sunderland are in advanced talks to sign 19-year-old Linfield right-back Trai Hume after making an offer of more than £200,000, according to Football Insider.

Lee Johnson will be hoping he is allowed to strengthen his squad in the winter window with the Black Cats one point off the top of League One after 24 games.

It seems they're now closing in on their first January signing as Football Insider has revealed that they've submitted a bid of more than £200,000 for Hume and are in advanced talks to complete the deal.

Lincoln City are also keen on the Northern Ireland U21 international but it is understood that those close to the deal expect him to join the Black Cats.

The teenager is said to have been at the Stadium of Light to see Sunderland's 5-0 hammering of Sheffield Wednesday last week.

Hume has made a strong start to the season in Northern Ireland, adding three goals and two assists as he's helped his side remain at the top of the Danske Bank Premiership for the majority of the 2021/22 campaign.

Linfield boss David Healy admitted in late December that the 19-year-old, who is a right-back by trade but is comfortable at centre-back and in midfield, was likely to leave in the current window.

The Verdict

It seems we may not have to wait too long before Sunderland land their first signing of the January window, with the Black Cats now in advanced talks with Hume and the teenager expected to join the club.

Reinforcements are needed at full-back/wing-back with Johnson forced to use midfielder Carl Winchester on the right flank for much of the season.

Winchester has done a sterling job but investing in a young defender that is natural in the role and could be first choice for years to come looks like a smart move.

With Lincoln also seemingly in the running, winning the race early in the window is a fantastic way to kick off the first month of 2022.