Sunderland have reportedly been joined by a Championship rival in the race to sign Nathan Broadhead.

The Lowdown: Talks held

The Wearside club have reportedly held talks over bringing the 24-year-old back to the Stadium of Light after his successful loan spell from Everton last season.

Hailed as ‘absolutely sensational‘ by journalist and Black Cats supporter Josh Bunting, he was their second-highest scorer in all competitions in 2021/22 with 13 goals, helping them on their way to winning promotion from League One.

The Latest: Wigan join race for Broadhead

Writing in his latest piece for The Northern Echo, journalist Scott Wilson has revealed that Wigan Athletic are ready to challenge Sunderland in the fight to sign Broadhead.

The striker has been told that he does not feature in Frank Lampard's plans for the season at Everton, but the Toffees want him to sign a new deal before sending him out on loan again.

The Verdict: Get it done

If there is another opportunity to take Broadhead on loan, then Sunderland need to grab it with both hands.

A favourite of Alex Neil's during his time at the Stadium of Light, the Black Cats boss claimed that the Welsh ace - who he dubbed a ‘constant threat’ - formed a ‘really good partnership’ with Ross Stewart as he never missed a league match under the 41-year-old when he was fit.

Sunderland have already done business with Everton this summer by bringing fellow striker Ellis Simms in on loan, so they should be confident that they can beat Wigan to this prospective deal as well.