One of the key players for the West Bromwich could be acquired by the Sunderland…

The club have been trying to persuade Jack Clarke to stay at the Stadium of Light for some time, but it appears he is likely to make the leap to the top flight.

Reports have also claimed that the Black Cats have opened talks with Dan Ballard, while Dan Neil has recently turned down their opening offer.

Sunderland do have the upper hand in most of their discussions though, with no one’s contract expiry currently an immediate concern.

However, Chris Rigg’s scholarship deal does mean that he could be on his way out this summer if he chooses not to sign a professional contract.

The ‘robust’ midfielder became a key player under Mike Dodds in the second half of the season and went onto attract interest from the likes of Manchester United, Liverpool and Bayern Munich.

Sunderland are eager to keep hold of Rigg, but it was previously claimed that his decision could depend on who the club bring in as their new manager.