According to The Shields Gazette, Sunderland are close to agreeing a new deal with 35-year-old winger Aiden McGeady.

The Lowdown: Black Cats prepare for new season

The Black Cats' preparations for the next campaign will be well under way as they aim to earn promotion to the Championship from League One.

McGeady's contract ran out at the end of the past term (Transfermarkt), but there now appears to be a development in regards to his future at The Stadium of Light.

The Latest: McGeady agreement close

As per this latest report, an agreement between the former Republic of Ireland international and the north-east outfit is close.

Although a deal has not yet been completed, an agreement is expected soon for the player called "unbelievable" by David Meyler earlier this season (Off The Ball).

The Verdict: A must

For the majority of the first half of the previous campaign, McGeady was an outcast at The Stadium of Light. However, he was finally given playing time from the start of this year by Lee Johnson, and he soon showed his worth - he ended the term with six goals and 17 assists in just 36 games.

With 122 created goals throughout his career, McGeady is the one true star talent Sunderland have - even at his age, he has the ability to control and affect games for his club. If the Black Cats are to earn promotion, the former Celtic man will surely have a big role to play.

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