Reliable journalist Alan Nixon has provided an update on Sunderland’s pursuit of experienced goalkeeper John Ruddy.

The Lowdown: Ruddy to become a free agent

The 35-year-old currently plays his football at Molineux with Wolves, but his contract with the Midlands outfit expires later this week and he is expected to leave, despite Bruno Lage reportedly wanting to agree fresh terms.

With a Wanderers exit seemingly inevitable, the shot-stopper will now be looking for his next destination, and the Black Cats have been linked with a move.

Following a fresh update, it sounds as though the Stadium of Light faithful will have to be patient in awaiting the player's decision.

The Latest: Nixon’s update

As part of a fan Q&A on Twitter, Nixon was asked whether there was any truth in the Ruddy to Sunderland rumours, to which he replied:

“Depends what he’s looking for in terms of a contract and a ‘project’ … and who else wants him …”

'Who else' seems to imply there is definite interest from Sunderland, but fans will have to wait and see if he's happy to play second fiddle to Anthony Patterson after his breakthrough campaign and subsequent new deal.

The Verdict: Connection to Neil

Alex Neil will now be preparing his squad ahead of Sunderland’s return to the Championship, and there will be several areas of the pitch that he will want to improve, including the goalkeeping department to provide competition for Patterson.

Ruddy, who was once dubbed an “outstanding” keeper by his former Norwich boss Paul Lambert, has plenty of experience under his belt in the second tier, having made 242 appearances for the Canaries, keeping 146 clean sheets throughout the entirety of his playing career, as per Transfermarkt.

Standing at 6 foot 3, the Saint Ives-born talent will already know the Black Cats boss from their time spent together at Carrow Road, so this could be a move that suits both parties.