Sunderland are reportedly keeping an eye on Billy Sharp and his situation at Sheffield United.
Phil Parkinson’s men are desperate to strengthen the ranks this January. Sharp, who has struggled for regular minutes this season, is seen as one Premier League striker who could be available.
With Chris Wilder admitting he will do what’s best for Billy Sharp despite wanting him to stay, a whole host of clubs are now on alert.
Indeed, the likes of Celtic, Leeds, and Nottingham Forest have all been credited with an interest in Sharp.
However, the latest reports emerging from the Sunderland Echo suggest the Black Cats are also in the mix. Furthermore, Phil Parkinson has admitted Sharp is someone he admires.
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“We saw that news and it’s been mentioned within our recruitment team and staff that he’s a good player,” Parkinson said.
“The club has tried to get him in the past, and goalscorers are much sought after. Billy has a good record, we’re looking at a lot of players, we’ve spent a lot of time on it.”
Sharp has scored just once for Sheffield United this season and made just one start. He has, however, featured in both the club’s last two Premier League games at Man City and Liverpool.
An unsurprising player to go after
If you’re a top-end League One club, then why wouldn’t you throw your name into the hat if you thought you had a chance of landing Billy Sharp?
The last time he was in the third tier he smashed in 30 goals. That season saw Sheffield United promoted.
Sunderland have one of the biggest budgets in the third tier so will always get a mention when it comes to the bigger names available.
However, if Sharp is to leave, it’s hard to see him dropping back to League One. With Championship interest and even Celtic in the mix, Sharp would surely prefer a move to one of those clubs over the Black Cats.