Sunderland are known to be in the loan market for players during the January transfer window and they could provide the perfect solution to a Leeds United conundrum.
Whites defender Charlie Cresswell has spent the first half of the season on loan at the Black Cats' Championship rivals but the England under-21 international has lost his place in the side in recent weeks.
Despite a positive start to the campaign with the Lions, which saw him score twice on his debut, Cresswell has failed to consistently nail down a starting berth under Gary Rowett despite making 17 appearances this term.
READ MORE: Four loan players Sunderland could target in January to strengthen play-off bid
Sunderland were said to be one of a number of Championship clubs interested in his loan signature during the summer and amid reports that Leeds are looking to terminate Cresswell's loan deal in order to find him regular football elsewhere, reports over the last 24 hours have suggested Tony Mowbray's side could revisit that interest.
The 20-year-old's profile would certainly fit the recruitment model, devised by sporting director Kristjaan Speakman and owner Kyril Louis-Dreyfus, of recruiting young players with high potential and he would add high quality competition in the central defensive area.
Should a move arise, Cresswell would be competing with Danny Batth, Daniel Ballard, Bailey Wright and Aji Alese for a starting berth at the back as Sunderland look to continue their play-off push in the second half of the Championship campaign.
READ NEXT
Free agents Sunderland could target to save millions in January
Louis Saha opens up on Sunderland regret as he makes Premier League admission
Kevin Phillips tips Sunderland for the play-offs and says they must hold on to Ross Stewart
Clear Sunderland January decision made on Ross Stewart, with Leon Dajaku heading for the exit door
Sunderland's Jay Matete rejected other offers to join Plymouth on loan says Argyle boss
