Sunderland manager Jack Ross will expect a busy transfer window as he looks to build a squad capable of securing promotion back to the Championship.

With several players expected to leave the Stadium of Light, Ross will need to bring a lot of new faces in and will have to be smart given the financial situation.

And, according to Alan Nixon, one man the Black Cats are looking to bring in is Tom Naylor, the versatile 26-year old who plays for Burton Albion.

Capable of playing in defence or midfield, was one of the Brewers standout players in the Championship in the season just finished.

However, he is out of contract in the summer and whilst he has been offered a new deal by Nigel Clough's side, he is available to leave on a free in a few weeks.

Naylor was a key part of the Burton side in 2015/16 that secured promotion from League One to the second tier.

Should he leave for Sunderland it would be a big blow for Burton who, like the Black Cats, will hope to be competing for promotion in 12 months time.

The Verdict

Naylor has been a fine player for Burton over the years but a move to Sunderland will surely appeal given the size of the Wearside club.

He would provide Ross with a reliable option in several positions and he knows all abotu League One which is important.

Sunderland will hope to close the deal as soon as possible ahead of pre-season.

Thoughts, Sunderland fans? Let us know in the comments below.