Sunderland have reportedly now registered an 'interest' in signing Josh Murphy on a free transfer.

The Lowdown: Out of contract

Murphy is out of contract at Cardiff City at the end of the month, meaning that he can leave as a free agent once it expires.

He spent the majority of last season on loan at fellow Championship side Preston North End, where he played 12 times in the division.

The Latest: 'Interest'

Taking to Twitter, journalist Darren Witcoop of Reach PLC has revealed that the Stadium of Light outfit have now registered their 'interest' in signing Murphy, while they also remain interested in both Dion Sanderson and John Ruddy:

"Sunderland have registered their interest in signing winger Josh Murphy, who is available on a free. Alex Neil worked with Murphy at Norwich and is a big fan. Interest in Wolves defender Dion Sanderson and keeper John Ruddy as reported elsewhere remains."

The Verdict: Avoid

Even though he can be signed for no transfer fee, Murphy is likely to demand a lot in wages to sign for the Black Cats.

He currently earns £25,000-per-week at Cardiff, more than any player on Wearside, and so they could have a problem in terms of trying not to break their wage structure.

The winger is not exactly the most prolific either, having managed just one goal and no assists in 14 games in total over all competitions last term (Transfermarkt).

Nonetheless, Murphy is a player that they should be avoiding as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of the new campaign.

In other news, find out what big SAFC deal is now 'moving closer' here!