Roker Report journalist Philip West is buzzing with the news that Sunderland are keen on signing free agent John Ruddy.

According to the Sunday Mirror (05/06, p69), via Football League World, the Black Cats are interested in signing the goalkeeper this summer after he left Wolves upon the expiry of his contract at Molineux.

A move to the Stadium of Light would reunite the 35-year-old with Alex Neil, with the pair having spent time together at Norwich City when the latter was in charge at Carrow Road.

The Latest: Journalist reacts

West, who writes for Roker Report, shared his delight with the reports linking Ruddy with a move to Wearside.

Taking to Twitter, the journalist and Sunderland fan claimed: “John Ruddy would be an absolutely cracking signing for us.

"Loads of experience, very solid & reliable, and could push Anthony Patterson and step in as deputy when needed. Would be a great addition if it happens! #SAFC”

The Verdict: Get it done

With Sunderland preparing to build a squad capable of competing in the Championship, a player with Ruddy’s vast experience at that level will be a great asset to Neil’s side.

The 35-year-old has made 163 appearances in the second tier of English football and a further 122 in the Premier League (via Transfermarkt), so 22-year-old Patterson could learn a lot from Ruddy’s wealth of experience. Indeed, the veteran's former Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo once claimed that the goalkeeper's ‘high standards’ in training were ‘amazing’.

With Ron Thorben Hoffmann and Lee Burge moving on, a reliable shot-stopper is just what Sunderland need in order to provide them with invaluable depth between the posts for next season.

In other news: Roker Report delighted with this Sunderland transfer link