SUNDERLAND have held discussions over a loan deal for Daniel Jebbison, with the Sheffield United youngster having attended the Stadium of Light last night to watch the Black Cats’ pre-season victory over Hull City.

Goals from Ross Stewart and Will Grigg ensured Sunderland signed off their pre-season programme on a winning note, but while Lee Johnson was unable to attend the game because of a sickness bug, the Black Cats head coach appears to be closing in on what would be his fourth signing of the summer.

Jebbison, a Canada-born 18-year-old who has represented England at youth level, broke into Sheffield United’s senior side at the end of last season.

He made four senior appearances for the Blades, and became the youngest player to score on their first start in the top-flight when he netted against Everton.

He is regarded as a bright prospect at Bramall Lane, but new Sheffield United boss Slavisa Jokanovic does not think he is ready for regular first-team football and he will be allowed to leave on loan.

Sunderland are one of a number of clubs to have spoken to the striker and his representatives in the last week, but the fact Jebbison travelled to Wearside to watch last night’s game suggests they are at the front of the queue for his services.

The Black Cats desperately need attacking reinforcements, with Charlie Wyke and Chris Maguire both having left since the end of last season.

Grigg has not scored a competitive goal for Sunderland for the best part of two years, but having claimed a stoppage-time winner last night, the Northern Irishman could yet have a future at the Stadium of Light.

“Grigg getting his goal was very pleasing,” said assistant boss Jamie McAllister, who deputised for Johnson last night. “It was a brilliant moment for us. He's got quality in the final third and we just need to get him going again."