Sunderland are keen to secure a loan deal for Jason Denayer, according to the Sunderland Echo.

Speculation emerged in Belgium earlier this week saying that the English outfit had enquired about the Manchester City defender's availability, and the local publication understand that the Black Cats' interest is in fact true.

The Belgian centre-back enjoyed a season-long loan with Celtic last campaign, being named the Scottish club's Young Player of the Year, as well as the PFA's in the league and being named in the team of the year after playing a key role in the league and cup winning side.

Sunderland still weak at the back desptie summer signings

Sunderland have recruited three defenders in the summer transfer window, bringing in centre-backs Younes Kaboul and Sebastian Coates, whilst also signing right-back Adam Matthews, who can play anywhere along the back line.

However, they have still shipped eight goals in their opening three games, with improvements certainly needed.

John O'Shea stepped in for the injured Kaboul in the weekend's 1-1 draw with Swansea City, but Patrick van Aanholt looked especially poor on the left once more, and thus Dick Advocaat may be searching for a replacement - with Denayer capable of occupying this role if required.

Denayer has fallen down City pecking order

Returning from his successful spell with Celtic, and with Vincent Kompany producing indifferent form in the centre of defence, many expected Denayer to be given a chance in Manuel Pellegrini's side this season.

However, despite the 20-year-old putting on some good displays in pre-season, Kompany has instead been elected to partner Eliaquim Mangala in the centre of defence so far in the new campaign, and has shown glimpses of his former self, with hints that he could be returning to his best.

Denayer is not third choice now either, with Martin Demichelis on the fringes of the team and Nicolas Otamendi having signed for the Citizens for £32.5 million last week.

Thus, it looks likely that Denayer will be loaned out once again before he is deemed ready for the first team.

Premier League status could put Black Cats ahead of the competition

Sunderland are not alone when it comes to being interested in the 20-year-old, however.

The report understands that French Ligue 1 side Marseille and Turkish outfit Galatasaray are also chasing his signature on a temporary basis, both of whom, if they were securing him on a permanent deal, would surely beat the Black Cats to the punch due to their title credentials and ability to boast European football.

Yet, on a loan deal, Manchester City are likely to favour Denayer moving to Sunderland, as it will allow him to get a taste of the Premier League and football in England, which he will need to be used to and comfortable with to perform at the top of the division with City.

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About the author
Ameé Ruszkai
Head of the Sunderland, Swansea City and women football sections at VAVEL UK. Email: [email protected]