As per The Sunderland Echo, the Black Cats are interested in signing Ethan Galbraith on loan this summer.

The Lowdown: Sunderland need midfield reinforcements

Sunderland missed out on promotion to the Championship last term via the play-offs, and will be hoping next year is finally their time to shine.

However, during the off-season Grant Leadbitter, Josh Scowen and Max Power all left the club, meaning they are in desperate need of midfield reinforcements.

The Latest: Galbraith on Johnson's radar

Now, it is being reported Lee Johnson and co are interested in signing Galbraith from Manchester United.

The Red Devils are reportedly prepared to let the 20-year-old leave on a temporary basis, but Sunderland will face competition from a number of Championship clubs, as well as their League One promotion rivals.

The Verdict: Interesting talent

Clubs at Sunderland's level must take advantage of the loan market, and Galbraith could be an interesting addition to the north-east outfit's squad should they be able to capture his services.

Valued at £810,000 (Transfermarkt), he has extensive experience for United at youth level, and even has two caps for Northern Ireland.

Former Northern Ireland U21 boss - and now manager of the senior side - Ian Baraclough showered Galbraith in praise in 2019 by comparing him to legendary Spanish duo Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta (manutd.com).

Of course, he is some way off that level, but he is clearly an exciting talent who could prove influential for Sunderland.

In other news, Sunderland have a bid rejected for this in-demand defender.