According to The Northern Echo, Sunderland are hoping to complete the signing of Jordan Hugill by the end of the week.

Sunderland want to sign Preston North End forward Jordan Hugill before the new season starts.

Simon Grayson is plotting a raid on his former club to sign last season's key striker.

Jordan Hugill was a regular starter under Grayson at Preston last season as he enjoyed his most profitable term to date.

The 25-year-old found the net on thirteen occasions last season as he played as the central figure in the Preston North End attack.

As a result of his good displays last year, a host of Championship clubs are on his trail, including Sunderland.

Birmingham City and Ipswich Town have both failed with £2.5m bids for the Preston marksman.

Sunderland are now hoping to enter pole position in the race to sign Jordan Hugill as they aim to tie up a deal before the season opener against Derby County next weekend.

Simon Grayson is looking to reunite with Hugill, hoping that his relationship with the former Port Vale striker will play a pivotal role in helping Sunderland finalise this deal.

Sunderland, who have already signed James Vaughan and Lewis Grabban this summer, might have to pay up to £4m for Hugill.

The Verdict

Sunderland seem to have the advantage here due to Hugill's links with Simon Grayson.

Jordan Hugill has never been prolific but he is a solid option to have for any Championship side.

Rotating James Vaughan, Lewis Grabban, Jordan Hugill and Joel Asoro should keep them all on their toes and desperate to fire so that they keep their place in the side.

This comes at quite an expensive price, though, as £4m is a lot for someone with only 15 Championship goals to his name.

Sunderland fans - would you like to wrap this deal up for £4m? Let us know below...