SUNDERLAND are ready to allow team captain George Honeyman join Hull City to boost their own spending power as Jack Ross looks to continue his squad improvements.

In something of a surprise development, Honeyman has been targeted by the Tigers who are believed to have had an offer accepted of around £400,000 for the homegrown midfielder.

The emergence of Elliot Embleton – who has revealed he signed a new deal with a view to playing more – and Ethan Robson, plus the arrival of George Dobson, has heightened the chances of Sunderland letting Honeyman go if the money was right.

And the 24-year-old, who is a graduate of the club’s academy system, has entered the final 12 months of his contract so Sunderland would risk losing him for nothing next summer. He is also one of the highest earners following Lee Cattermole and Bryan Oviedo’s departures.

Whatever fee is received will help Ross’ recruitment drive – having already signed five new players ahead of this Saturday’s League One opener with Oxford United.

Hull manager Grant McCann has moved for him despite knowing Honeyman has not played much football during pre-season because of a knee problem. He has 97 first team appearances for the club he joined aged ten.