Football League World editor Sam Rourke has revealed that Sunderland are among a number of clubs who are 'keen' on signing Morgan Fox.

The Lowdown: Defensive reinforcements

The Stadium of Light outfit are reportedly set to win the race to sign Brighton and Hove Albion defender Jan Paul van Hecke on loan for the season, after losing new signing Dan Ballard to injury.

It looks as if they want to strengthen at left-back as well, with Dennis Cirkin the only senior option in the squad at the moment in that role.

The Latest: Fox interest

Taking to Twitter, Rourke revealed that Sunderland - along with Swansea City - are 'keen' on Fox, although Championship rivals Reading have 'enquired' over the Stoke City left-back.

The journalist tweeted: "Understand Reading have enquired about Stoke City left-back Morgan Fox. Swansea and Sunderland also keen."

The Verdict: Needed

Alex Neil's side certainly need cover in the left-back area, and Fox would help to provide just that.

The 6 foot 1 ace is vastly experienced in the Championship, with 199 games played in the division for three different clubs, scoring four goals and supplying 15 assists at that level (Transfermarkt).

When Stoke signed him from Sheffield Wednesday in 2020 after he rejected the latter's offer of a long-term contract extension, Potters manager Michael O’Neill sung his praises, highlighting Fox's 'defensive acumen, athleticism and delivery from set-plays'.

Also, at 28 years of age, Sunderland would be signing a player in his prime, so this could turn out to be a very shrewd piece of business from the Black Cats if it comes off.