Kevin Phillips believes the lure of the Championship may be too tempting for Elliot Embleton.
The Sunderland youngster spent the second half of the season on loan at Blackpool and was a major part of their success as they went on to win promotion to the Championship.
There have been a number of rumours linking Embleton with a permanent move away from Wearside this summer, with Blackpool the frontrunners.
However, Phillips expects the Black Cats to "fight tooth and nail" to keep him at the Stadium of Light this summer.
Phillips told Football Insider : "I would be desperate to keep hold of him.
“I watched him a few times last season and I think he is good player and he is certainly someone who can play in League One.
“It raised a few eyebrows when he went to Blackpool and he did very well there.
“I expect the club to be fighting tooth and nail not to let him go.
“He is a good, young player who has done exceptionally well to help Blackpool get promoted. I think he would have a lot to offer next season. Keep him at the club and let him help the club get promoted.
“The other question is, does Embleton want to stay? I am sure Blackpool will be interested in signing him and he might be tempted to go and play in the Championship. I really hope they keep him though.”
