Sunderland have increased their interest in Sheffield United midfielder Oliver Norwood, despite being one of several Championship clubs interested in securing his services.
After nearly 250 appearances for the Blades, it was confirmed last week that his six-year stint at Bramall Lane will end at the conclusion of the season. Although he did not play in Tottenham Hotspur’s 3-0 defeat yesterday, the former Northern Ireland international was given the opportunity to say goodbye as the Yorkshire-based side exited the Premier League.
Norwood began the season as a starter, but fell out of favour in the second half. He did, however, score the winning goal in the club’s season-opening triumph over Wolverhampton Wanderers in November.
He is an experienced player who understands how to get out of the Championship. He has been promoted from the second division four times: twice with Sheffield United and once each with Brighton & Hove Albion and Fulham. As a result, it is not surprising that a number of clubs are vying for his signing.
According to Football Insider, Sunderland, Hull City, and Watford are the three teams in the division that have already expressed interest in the 33-year-old. The Black Cats, despite being without a management, are hoping to add experienced depth to their team as they look to improve on their poor 16th-place finish this season. Norwood is a sought guy, with numerous MLS clubs also interested.
While new arrivals are likely, a permanent replacement for Michael Beale, who left the Stadium of Light in February, remains the top priority. According to reports, the club hopes to announce an appointment in the coming weeks, with former Hull manager Liam Rosenior quickly emerging as the leader.
Writer’s perspective
Ollie Norwood would be a terrific addition to any Championship squad, and he will undoubtedly be in high demand. Sunderland are anxious to return to the Premier League, and signing someone who has done so on several occasions is a no-brainer.
The midfielder has exceptional passing ability and can pull the strings in the middle of the pitch. The ability to develop around him alongside players like Dan Neil would result in a significant rise in on-field excellence. Hull, on the other hand, are equally as ambitious and are close to his current club, making them more tempting.
