According to the Mirror’s live blog (27/7, 13:14), Sunderland are set to rival Sheffield Wednesday in the race to sign Alan Hutton this summer.  

Reports earlier this summer confirmed that Sheffield Wednesday were monitoring the situation of Hutton at Aston Villa and were keen to add the experienced right-back to their squad.

However, Sunderland, who are preparing for their first return to the Sky Bet Championship since 2007, now look set to rival Wednesday for the defender’s signature and aim to bring Hutton back to the Stadium of Light, where he spent time on-loan in 2010.

Hutton, 32, was a regular for Aston Villa in the Championship last season under both Roberto Di Matteo and Steve Bruce, making 36 appearances across all competitions.

However, Hutton has just 12-months remaining on his contract at Villa Park, and Bruce may be tempted to sell the right-back, with other options available to him.

Ritchie De Laet, who struggled with injuries last season, is one option Bruce has, whilst James Bree is another.

Bree was signed by Bruce during last season’s Janaury transfer window, and despite Hutton continuing as first-choice during the second-half of the season, 19-year-old Bree is 13 years younger than Hutton and more of a long-term option for Villa.

The Verdict

Hutton was impressive for Aston Villa last season, and was one of very few players at Villa Park to put in consistent performances when they were struggling at the start of 2017.

However, with younger options available, it is easy to see why Bruce could look to move the right-back on this summer.

The 32-year-old would be an excellent addition for either Sunderland or Sheffield Wednesday, as he showed last season, that he still has the ability to excel in the Championship.

Where do you think Hutton will be playing his football next season? Let us know your thoughts!