Sunderland journalist and podcaster Philip West has been left bemoaning some transfer news that he has now heard from Sky Sports.

The Lowdown: Interest

As per Sky Sports reporter Lyall Thomas, Swansea City are now 'rivalling' the Wearside club to sign Gooch as a free agent, as his contract at the Stadium of Light expires at the end of the month.

Preston North End are also thought to have shown an 'interest' in his signature, but it looks as if it is going to be between the other two clubs.

The Latest: West reacts

Taking to Twitter, West bemoaned the transfer news after hearing it, claiming that it would 'be a real shame' if Gooch were to move on from the Black Cats this summer:

"I think it would be a real shame to see Lynden Gooch move on this summer. He’s the ultimate team player, Alex Neil seems to value his versatility & work rate, and we all saw how much the Wembley victory meant to him, as well. Keep him if possible, for me."

The Verdict: Keep

Given interest from a number of their Championship rivals, Neil's side need to give Gooch a new deal and keep him at all costs.

The United States international was a mainstay in the team last season, supplying six assists on route to promotion from League One, and it would be devastating to see him leave for nothing.

Nonetheless, there is still time for the club to sort out a new contract, which in turn would also protect his market value should they wish to sell Gooch later on in his career.

In other news, find out which 'bullish' predator SAFC now hold an 'interest' in here!