We would love to know what fans of both clubs think of the planned deal.

Boro fans would you be sad to see him go? And to a local rival?

Sunderland fans, will you welcome back a prodigal son? Can he do a job for you in League One?

Here are some comments from fans on Twitter:

Every club needs a Grant Leadbitter pic.twitter.com/jfoIWHdok2

— Chris (@smoggiec) January 24, 2019

Whether the position is a priority or not it’ll be a pleasure to welcome Grant Leadbitter back to his boyhood club. He wants to be here and is very experienced. Great move. #SAFC

— SAFC Fans (@SafcFans) January 24, 2019

The signing of Paul Bracewell was a key part of the jigsaw to get us promoted in 90 & 96. Leadbitter would play a similar role and hopefully has similar results. Still need pace and still need two forwards.

— Sunderland Fan (@FulwellEnderFTM) January 24, 2019

Dont have the best track records with rating transfers, but just don't get the #Leadbitter move. We have plenty CM options, and he's not the physical presence we needed. Yes he wants to play for us which is nice, but not what was needed IMO. Hope im proved wrong again! #SAFC

— Andrew Tonge (@tongey93) January 24, 2019

Regardless of whether we need another midfielder or not, you can’t argue with Leadbitter’s desire to come to Sunlun. He’s turned down 3 championship clubs & a massive wage cut 👏🏻 if that doesn’t show desire & commitment then I don’t know what does 👌🏼

— Pato (@_Pato1992) January 24, 2019

Looks like Grant is on his way. Thanks for everything skipper. Played with passion and determination every single game. A total workhorse. Gonna miss ya Leadboots! #UTB @GazetteBoro @boro #leadbitter #boro pic.twitter.com/8n6b5tZ7lx

— Ross Hunter (@RossHunterUK) January 24, 2019

@stewartdonald3 if you are signing grant leadbitter from @boro, I for one say well done. He's been quality for us and will do a great job for you either in L1 or the Champshp. Good piece of business. Hope you're well and enjoying the challenge. #boro #utb

— Tim Willis (@tim_willis) January 24, 2019

I don't think I've ever seen such unconditional love for a player (Leadbitter). I have not seen a single bad word said about him. #legend #boro

— Steve McDonald (@BoroSteve11) January 24, 2019

Oohh grand leadbitter hes magic you know. Thank you for the memories at boro. My all time favourite player. Good luck, captain. #boro #utb #leadbitter7

— Leanne S (@Leannee55) January 24, 2019

Grant Leadbitter has been a fantastic player for @Boro for years. A true professional. Never shirked responsibility. Gave his all every time he pulled on the shirt. His attitude to football has been exemplary and his class immense. Good luck to him. A good old fashioned player. https://t.co/vrNb3femxx

— Sean Doherty (@SdohertySean) January 23, 2019

Grant Leadbitter leaving signals the End of an era for me. His passion and drive for the club was the foundation that pushed us forward. Led by example and others followed. Wasn’t the most gifted but left everything on the pitch. I’ll miss him. Great captain. 🙌🏻 #boro

— James (@jamesrollings1) January 23, 2019