Swansea City are set to hold formal talks with Lynden Gooch's representatives in the next few days as they look to prize him away from Sunderland, according to the Northern Echo

Gooch helped the Black Cats secure promotion back to the Championship in 2021/22 and has amassed 212 appearances since coming through the academy at the North East club but is out of contract this summer.

Sunderland have offered the versatile American a new contract but they face competition from the Swans and a number of other second tier teams.

Gooch made it clear he was keen to stay at the Stadium of Light after the play-off final win at Wembley but it seems that will be tested.

The Northern Echo has reported that the Welsh club are set to open formal talks over a move for Gooch and are confident of outbidding the Black Cats.

The report claims that Russell Martin is particularly keen on the 26-year-old's versatility, which was on show last term as he played in defence, midfield, and the forward line on both flanks.

The Verdict

It'll be something of a worry for Sunderland that Swansea are expected to outbid them for Gooch's signature and appear confident ahead of talks with his representatives.

While not always the most popular amongst fans, he was a useful player for Alex Neil last season and certainly someone worth keeping in the squad ahead of their return to the Championship.

The 26-year-old's long association with the North East club would seem to give them the advantage but better terms on a contract and the project that Martin is building at the Swansea.com Stadium could tempt him to make the move.

It'll be interesting to see whether Sunderland are willing to improve their offer if that is what is needed to keep him.