Sunderland are seemingly in the market for a new striker, and Tom Cannon has been strongly linked with a move to the Black Cats this month.
After Sunderland sent shockwaves through the Championship with the signing of Enzo Le Fee, it would seem clear that a new striker is the next priority for Regis Le Bris.
Tom Cannon is the latest name to be linked with the North East outfit, with talk of Leicester City recalling the striker from his successful loan spell at Stoke City.
If that happens, it is thought Sunderland would make a loan-to-buy offer for Cannon this month, as they look to add more firepower to their promotion charge.
Stoke City recall Nathan Lowe – are they preparing for life after Tom Cannon?
That reported pursuit of Cannon received a big boost on Sunday, when Stoke made the decision to activate a recall of their own, bringing young striker Nathan Lowe back from his prolific spell with League Two pace-setters, Walsall.
Lowe had scored 18 goals and registered seven assists for the Saddlers in the first half of the season, but new Stoke boss, Mark Robins, has seemingly decided he wants the 19-year-old to be part of his plans.
With regards to Sunderland’s transfer activity that would be great news, as it likely means the Potters are readying their replacement for Cannon.
Sunderland are thought to be interested in Cannon and Ben Brereton-Diaz, but the latter may be more inclined to head back to Sheffield United, leaving the Black Cats relying on the 22-year-old Leicester loanee.
Ruud van Nistelrooy hints at plans for Tom Cannon at Leicester
Leicester have until Wednesday to activate the break clause in Cannon’s loan agreement with Stoke, at which point they could choose to send him to another Championship club. Sunderland are joined in that race by Sheffield Wednesday, Sheffield United, and Luton Town.
However, comments made by Leicester boss Ruud van Nistelrooy in his latest press conference (via the Leicester Mercury), could well suggest that the Foxes have plans for Cannon that would keep him closer to home.
When asked about Cannon, Van Nistelrooy said: “He’s one on the list for us. We keep a close eye on him. Tom’s situation is closely assessed. There are decisions to be made on that. It’s still a possibility [he stays at Stoke]. But we’re looking at what is best for his situation and what is best for the club.”
From that, Sunderland will only hope that Leicester determine the best thing for Cannon is to send him to the Stadium of Light to be part of their promotion charge.