Fleetwood Town are set to win the race to sign Preston North End defender Tommy Spurr, according to a report by HITC Sport.

Spurr looks set to join Fleetwood on a season-long loan deal despite reported interest from Sunderland.

The experienced defender, who can play as a centre-half or as a left-back, is available for a move this summer after injuries cost him a regular spot in Preston's side.

The Lilywhites are willing to farm him out on loan to League One for the year with former Newcastle United midfielder Joey Barton set to beat Sunderland to his signature.

The Sheffield Wednesday academy product started his career at Hillsborough, playing over 200 games before stints with Doncaster Rovers and Blackburn Rovers.

He has previously won promotion from League One with Doncaster and now Fleetwood want him for their promotion bid.

The 30-year-old looks set to move to Fleetwood rather than Sunderland this summer.

The Verdict

Spurr may have had his injury problems lately, but he is still a top signing for a promotion-chasing League One side.

His experience at Championship and League One level would be invaluable for any team hoping to be competing at the top of the division.

Sunderland will now be looking elsewhere to find players to compete with new addition Alim Ozturk at centre-half.

Sunderland and Fleetwood fans - What do you make of this news? Let us know below...