This article is part of Football League World's 'The Verdict' series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more...

Sunderland manager Jack Ross is close to further strengthening his Black Cats squad with the club looking to seal a deal for Walsall midfielder George Dobson, according to a report in the Northern Echo.

Dobson, 21, was skipper at the Bescot Stadium last season, in a campaign that saw Walsall suffer relegation to League Two ending the season in 22nd spot, three points from safety.

So would Dobson prove a good addition at the Stadium of Light?

We discuss........

Tommy Joyce

"This'd be a great signing.

"He may be young at 21 but he brings a wealth of experience with him.

"You cannot see him buckling at the pressure of joining a big club when you consider how adaptable he has already been in his career. Not only does he play in midfield and defence, but he's also been a club captain at such a young age and has played abroad at Sparta Rotterdam in the Netherlands.

"Due to Walsall's relegation to League Two, now might be a good opportunity to pick him up at a slightly reduced fee.

"Even if things don't go right for Dobson, he will have a good resale value due to his experiences already in League One."

Ned Holmes

"Bringing Dobson in would be a smart bit of work by Jack Ross.

"The 21-year-old was excellent for Walsall last season and was their best creative outlet, grabbing eight assists in 44 appearances.

"Walsall were relegated at the end of last season but Dobson showed that he had the quality to thrive in League One, and should be able to kick on in a Black Cats side who should be competing for the title.

"Despite his young age, Dobson captained the Saddlers last season, which indicates that Ross would be adding a player with real leadership qualities to his squad.

"At 21, the defensive midfielder is likely a few years off his prime and Ross could be making a signing that pays real dividends for Sunderland in the future."

Jacob Potter

"This is a smart bit of business by Jack Ross’ side if the move is confirmed.

"Dobson was a regular for Walsall in League One last season, and was a rare bright-spark for them, even though they were relegated into League Two.

"He made 38 appearances for them and is a versatile player to have in any squad as he can play either at centre-back, or in the CDM role.

"He’s still only 21 as well, which means age on his side, and I think he could be an excellent signing for the Black Cats as they look to win promotion back into the Championship next season.

"They’ve already moved some players on ahead of pre-season, and they need additional depth across some of the busier periods of the season, and Dobson would definitely provide them with that.

"Dobson will be wanting to play at the highest level possible as well, so it’s a move that would suit both parties involved."