Sunderland set sights on Manchester City prospect as potential Jobe Bellingham replacement

Sunderland are keen on Manchester City starlet Charlie Gray as they prepare to lose Jobe Bellingham, reporter Alan Nixon has said.

Sunderland are aiming for the Premier League and will undoubtedly have some big signings on their radar. SAFC will be in a solid financial position as it seeks to bolster its ranks.

However, there is genuine interest in the Black Cats’ transfer strategy throughout the summer transfer window.

Moves for proven players with pedigree are desired, but SAFC will also look to make savvy deals for young talents. That recruitment model has landed them in this position, and they are unlikely to leave it. Reporter Alan Nixon has stated on his Patreon page that one young star on Sunderland’s radar is Manchester City midfielder Charlie Grey.

According to Nixon, SAFC is considering Gray as a replacement for Jobe Bellingham, who is expected to join German giants Borussia Dortmund. The 19-year-old is regarded as a great addition to the Stadium of Light, but Manchester City are reluctant to sell the teenager. As a result, City may ensure that any sale is expensive, with a large sell-on clause included.

More on Gray

Gray was born in Manchester City and spent his whole youth career with the Premier League powerhouse. The reported Sunderland target has worked his way up the ranks, becoming a star at both the U18 and U21 levels in recent years. He has yet to make his senior debut, but he appears to be on the right track as he matures into a legitimate potential. Gray is mostly a defensive midfielder, but he can also play box-to-box and as a number 10. He even appeared as a centre-back in one Premier League 2 game last season.

A bold Bellingham replacement approach from Sunderland

Sunderland are aware that if Bellingham leaves this summer, they would face a significant void to fill, therefore replacing him with a 19-year-old who has yet to make his professional appearance will be a risky move.

However, this is the method that has allowed SAFC return to the Premier League after a long absence, so it is unsurprising that they are considering further additions of this nature ahead of next season. Some may have preferred a more proven replacement for Bellingham, but this would come at a cost. Perhaps Gray would come in and play off the bench with starts in the cup while another player takes the instant starting XI slot, something Manchester City can work towards over time.