Sunderland are reportedly eyeing free agent Lewie Earl after the central defender's recent Burnley exit. 

The 19-year-old is a product of the Preston North End academy but left the Championship club to join Burnley on trial earlier this year and featured for the Clarets in an U23s game against Newcastle United U23s last month.

Earl's time at Turf Moor has not lasted long, however, as reputable journalist Alan Nixon has reported that the teenager has left the Premier League club and could be set to join the Black Cats.

It is understood that the League One outfit are looking at the central defender, who is currently a free agent.

Phil Parkinson has been short of options at centre-back this season with Morgan Feeney, Jordan Willis, and Arbenit Xhemajli all suffering from injury issues, while Tom Flanagan was sidelined due to a suspension.

It's unclear at this point whether Earl is being looked at as a first-team option but given his experience, you feel he's likely to be one for the future rather than someone to help to solve Parkinson's current problems.

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The Verdict

Parkinson has been plagued with defensive injuries this season but Earl looks more like a long-term signing than one that will play much of a part his term.

That's not to say the 19-year-old can't provide cover or do a job if asked but you feel he may coming in to join the U23s.

Sunderland have seen some of their more exciting young players leave the club in recent years, so you feel it will please the Stadium of Light faithful to see them trying to replenish the youth teams.