Whispers - Sunderland Transfer Speculation Update (Elliott to sign for Mackems)!

Last updated : 31 May 2004 By John Jenkin

Stephen Elliott - Manchester City - Sunderland are understood to be on the verge of signing Elliott for a nominal fee.  I would expect this price to be round the 750k mark.  The Republic of Ireland U21 international has scored 11 goals in the last 15 reserves matches, which had caught McCarthy's attention.  It would seem that Elliott has found himself well down the pecking order at the City of Manchester stadium, so a move to the Stadium of Light would certainly appeal to the young foward.

Michael Bridges - Leeds - If Sunderland sign Bridges for free from Leeds United, then I would expect the lad to run riot in the first division. I can confirm that Sunderland have already been in talks with Bridges, which is promising. I believe that Bridges would sign for Sunderland as other teams interested in signing him couldn't offer first team football. One team interested is Southampton and the reason Bridges left Sunderland was because he was behind the likes of Kevin Phillips, so I would find it hard to believe that he would want to put himself back in the same situation he was 5 years ago. One stumbling block could Bridges wage demands, but with high earners Babb, Bjorklund and McAteer all leaving, Sunderland may be able to offer him a good enough package.

Morten Gamst Pedersen - Tromso - The Norway national coach has already advised Pedersen that a move to Stadium would be the best destination to further his football career and increase his international future. Perderson would come at 1.5m, which is allot of money to a first division team, but could be 1.5m well spent for the talent we would receive in return. A host of Premiership clubs are also waiting in the wings, but non that could offer consistent first team football, which could swing it in Sunderland's favour.

Gary Speed from Newcastle - It's being reported today that Sunderland will table a bid with the Welsh Veteran if they are promoted. Speed would come at a minimum fee due to age and current contract status.

Ian Harte from Leeds - It's rumoured that if Sunderland are promoted, Mick McCarthy will make a move for Leeds defender. Sunderland would pay 1.5m - 2m for Harte and would be a sound buy at that price.

Carl Robinson from Portsmouth - Mick McCarthy will attempt to sign Carl Robinson from Portsmouth, but will come with a minimum fee. Portsmouth will be looking to move some of their players on and with Carl publicly admitting that he would like to sign for Sunderland on a permanent basis, I expect to see him at the SOL next season.

Steve Caldwell from Scumcastle - The word is that although Steve is currently on loan at Leeds, he will be offered and will accept a contract from Sunderland in the summer. Expect Steve to be Gary Breen's new defensive partner next season, promoted or not.

Keep an eye out for updates to this article over the summer.