Sunderland's new owner Mark Campbell will kickstart their pre-season by sanctioning moves for John Marquis and Harry Brockbank, as reported by the Northern Echo.

The Black Cats are in the final stages of a takeover which will see Stewart Donald relinquish his majority shareholding in the club. Campbell, a UK-based businessman with links to the US, should complete a deal to take charge this week.

One of his first tasks will be to allow Jack Ross to reignite his passion for Marquis, whom he reportedly went in for last season. The former Millwall man grabbed 22 league goals for Doncaster Rovers last season, seeing them finish just one place below the Black Cats.

Marquis has a year left of his contract and today Grant McCann underlined the fact it will take a big bid to prise him away.

20-year-old Brockbank would be a less impressive capture in terms of reputation but again would make a statement of intent. He's currently a Bolton Wanderers player, but could join the exodus from the crisis-hit club if the Sunderland takeover is completed.

He made three Championship appearances last season as the Trotters were relegated.

The Verdict

Picking up Marquis would be a big statement, but surely it would spell the end of Charlie Wyke? The former Bradford man suffered from injuries last season and if Ross persists with the 4-2-3-1 formation then Wyke would be a long way down the pecking order.

Even in a 4-4-2, he'd be surplus to requirements as well; Marquis is impressive in front of goal and as a big summer signing would surely get the nod alongside Will Grigg.