Sunderland are among a number of clubs interested in making a move for Aston Villa youngster Cameron Archer, according to reports.
The Lowdown: Archer struggling for playing time
The 20-year-old is a hot young prospect at Villa Park, but having been loaned out to Championship side Preston last season, the 2022/23 campaign has been tougher for him.
Archer remained at Villa beyond the summer but he has only managed six appearances in the Premier League, all of which have come as a substitute and amounting to just 44 minutes.
For that reason, a move away could make sense, and a fresh update suggests that he could depart the Midlands temporarily.
The Latest: Sunderland keen on Archer
According to Football Insider, Sunderland are among a 'number of Championship clubs' to have enquired about a move for Archer in the January transfer window.
A loan move for the second half of the season appeals to the team in question, with the Villa youngster netting seven times in 20 outings for Preston.
The Verdict: Good for his development
A loan move between January and May makes complete sense for all parties, allowing Archer to enjoy the regular first-team action which proved so beneficial last season.
It is difficult to see him getting many opportunities at Villa in the coming months as Unai Emery looks to make his mark at the club, so giving him game-time elsewhere would be a better option.
That's not to say that Archer can't have a long-term future with the Villans, though - he has been hailed as 'fantastic' by Preston manager Ryan Lowe - and another impressive loan spell should only enhance his reputation.