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With the arrival of Liam Bridcutt looking likely to happen before the close of the transfer window, Lee Cattermole's place in the Sunderland side could soon come under intense scrutiny and according to reports in the Potteries this evening, Stoke could be ready to offer the midfielder a way out of the Stadium of Light.
According to the report, Cattermole is thought to be on the market for around £5m and if Bridcutt arrives and is as critical to Poyet's side as he was at Brighton, then Sunderland could be tempted to cash in on a player who will be sure to lose his place in front of the back four to the former Chelsea trainee.
Cattermole's form under Poyet has been very hit and miss, with the player looking back to his best in some games (his display in the quarter-final against Chelsea a particular high note) but those displays have been marred by his first half sending off against Hull and an absolute horror of a first half against Aston Villa.
The report also mentions that Sunderland would be interested in a fire sale and although the club would probably sell most players if a suitable bid was received, they certainly wouldn't be looking to conduct a fire sale.
Stay tuned to Roker Report throughout January as we keep you up to date with his and all other transfer news and rumours. Also, feel free to keep in touch with our dedicated Transfer Centre, which you can do by CLICKING HERE.