Sunderland target Nathan Broadhead ‘must be close’ to resolving his future with Everton, according to Sunderland Echo journalist Phil Smith.

The Lowdown: Broadhead’s loan

The 24-year-old spent the 2021/22 campaign on loan with the Black Cats, where he made 20 appearances in League One, scoring an emphatic ten goals.

This total could have been much higher if it wasn’t for his serious hamstring injury which kept him out of action for 18 games, hindering his progress playing first-team football.

The centre-forward has only featured twice for the Toffees’ first-team, with just one appearance made in the Premier League.

The Latest: Smith’s update

Earlier this week, the Northern Echo reported that Sunderland will make a new push to re-sign Broadhead after the striker was not involved in the opening game of Everton’s US tour against Arsenal.

With the Toffees’ second game of the tour complete, Smith has weighed in on Broadhead’s transfer situation.

Taking to Twitter, the journalist said: “Nathan Broadhead not involved again as Everton's US tour comes to a close.

“Still think a permanent move to #SAFC should be one that suits all parties. Must be close to resolving his future now either way...”

The Verdict: Great signing

During his season with the Black Cats, the Welshman averaged 1.6 shots, 0.9 dribbles and 0.5 key passes per game (via WhoScored).

The Everton man averaged a 6.91 match rating throughout the campaign (via SofaScore); an impressive statistic in a promotion-winning side and one that puts him within the top ten performers in the squad.

Therefore, with minutes seemingly unavailable at Goodison Park, a transfer to the Stadium of Light would be a great move for all parties involved.