SUNDERLAND will give boss Tony Mowbray cash for a couple of signings if he keeps the club in promotion contention.
Mowbray arrived too late to influence deals in the last window while the Black Cats snapped up emerging talents.
Mowbray could be handed substantial funds in the January transfer window
That strategy can change if Mowbray thinks old heads would make a difference.
But Sunderland may be forced to replace striker Ross Stewart as Blackburn eye up a move for the 26-year-old Scot.
Rovers looked into a move for Stewart in the last window and could offer him the kind of contract he wants.
Stewart’s deal is running out and new boss Mowbray will be keen for him to extend his stay rather than lose a star man.
However, Rovers are lurking and Sunderland may not be able to keep hold of him.
Meanwhile, Newcastle are planning a £2.5million raid for Sunderland super-teen midfielder Chris Rigg.
The England youth ace, 15, is starring for club and country and rated the best young prospect in the UK.
He is impressing for the Black Cats’ Under-21s side and was the Young Lions’ skipper for a recent game in Italy.
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Sunderland are desperate to keep Rigg but the demand for him is so great they may find that hard.
If he is tempted away, the fee demanded will inevitably be a record for a player his age.
Everton have been after Rigg for months but may not be willing to go high enough with their offer.
