Sunderland linked with summer swoop for Eredivisie man

Sunderland have been linked with a summer swoop for this Dutch midfielder.

Sunderland have been linked with a move for SC Heerenveen midfielder Thom Haye.

Reports coming out of Europe (via Sunderland Echo) have revealed that the Black Cats have taken an interest in Heerenveen's defensive midfielder Haye.

The 28-year-old has been with the club since joining from NAC Breda midway through last season. The former AZ and Willem II man has played 27 times in the Eredivisie this season, scoring once and assisting three.

As per Sunderland Echo, Dutch journalist Sander de Vries has revealed that Sunderland are interested in a summer swoop for Haye, but that the Black Cats are yet to make a formal approach to Heerenveen.

Midfield additions needed...

A common theme from this season has been Sunderland's lack of steel in midfield. And that theme has become more prominent in the absence of Corry Evans, with Mowbray having addressed his side's lack of physicality on many occasions this season.

Whilst Haye isn't an overwhelming physical presence, he'd certainly bring a bit more bite to the Sunderland midfield. He's a defensive-minded midfielder who stands at 5ft 10ins, which already makes him more of a presence than names like Elliot Embleton and Edouard Michut who are more technical, attacking-minded midfielders.

And whilst it's somewhat of a random link, Sunderland fans should have a lot of faith in the club's recruitment strategy after seeing the signings they've made this season.

Much more than just a new central midfielder is needed this summer though. More physicality and more height is required to keep Sunderland in check with the rigours of the Championship, and of course some depth in the striker department.

Sunderland return to action v Preston North End next Monday, with a win needed to keep their play-off hopes alive.

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