Sunderland are reportedly fighting alongside a number of other clubs to sign Northampton Town winger Sam Hoskins.

The Lowdown: Stunning season

Hoskins is having a stunning season so far at Northampton, scoring 11 goals and making one assist in his opening 10 matches in League Two, averaging more than a goal a game (Transfermarkt).

Hailed as still 'quick' for his age by his manager Jon Brady, the 29-year-old has really stepped up over the last couple of months, and is now attracting plenty of interest ahead of the January transfer window.

The Latest: Sunderland interest

As per Football League World, the Stadium of Light outfit are one of a number of sides that are now 'keeping tabs' on Hoskins ahead of January, but they will likely face a lot of competition for his signature.

North East rivals Middlesbrough, as well as Sheffield Wednesday, Portsmouth, Barnsley and Derby County from League One, are also thought to be interested in signing Hoskins, in what could turn out to be a major battle in the next window.

The Verdict: Smart signing

Given his goal record, Hoskins is clearly ready to make the jump back up to the Championship.

He has experience of playing in the second division with Yeovil Town already, and will no doubt want to prove himself at that level again.

Nonetheless, the winger can play anywhere in the attacking third of the pitch, which will come of great use to Tony Mowbray and the Black Cats as the fixtures start to pile up in the New Year.