Sunderland have reportedly held talks with Jordan Gabriel over a potential move to the Stadium of Light, according to the Northern Echo. 

Gabriel is currently on the books with Nottingham Forest, but could be set for a permanent move away from the City Ground this summer.

The young full-back spent the 2020/21 campaign on loan with Blackpool, and made 35 appearances for the Tangerines, as they won promotion back into the Championship.

Neil Critchley's side are believed to be keen on reaching an agreement to land Gabriel's signature in the near future, but Sunderland are also eyeing a move for the 22-year-old.

The Black Cats missed out on promotion into the second tier last term, as they were beaten by Lincoln City in their League One play-off semi-final.

Journalist James Nursey has previously revealed that Nottingham Forest are reportedly willing to allow Gabriel to leave the club this summer for a fee of £300,000.

Sunderland are set to take on Wigan Athletic in their first match of the new League One season, in what is likely to be a potentially tricky test for Lee Johnson's side at the Stadium of Light.

The Verdict: 

I really like the sound of this from a Sunderland perspective.

Gabriel has shown that he's more than good enough to play regularly in League One, having played his part in Blackpool's promotion-winning campaign last term.

I'm partly surprised that Nottingham Forest are willing to move him on this summer, as I thought he could have been part of Chris Hughton's plans in the Championship.

Additional strength in depth at right-back is certainly needed for Sunderland, especially as it would give Luke O'Nien the opportunity to move into his natural midfield role heading into the new season.