“This opportunity cannot be turned down” – Sunderland eye swoop for out-of-contract player at League One rivals: The verdict

This article is part of Football League World’s ‘The Verdict’ series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more…

Sunderland are reportedly interested in Alex Gorrin, who is set to leave League One rivals Oxford United this summer.

The 28-year-old is out of contract this summer and set to leave the Us, with The Mirror’s David Anderson reporting that Sunderland are among the clubs interested alongside Portsmouth, Wigan and others.

But would he be a good signing for the Black Cats? And do they need him?

We quizzed our FLW writers for their thoughts…

Marcus Ally

This would be a smart signing regardless of what division the Black Cats are in next season.

Alex Gorrin has been one of the most accomplished ball-playing midfielders in the third tier for a few seasons now and could slot in well into Sunderland’s double pivot under Alex Neil.

Talking strictly in possession, the 28-year-old would be an upgrade on Corry Evans, and with the likelihood that Dan Neil departs in the summer, Gorrin would be a good addition to replenish the strength in depth.

The Spaniard does not feel like an Alex Neil player, but on a free transfer this opportunity cannot be turned down.

Alfie Burns

This could be a good piece of potential business for the Black Cats to oversee, no matter what division they are playing in next season.

We know that Gorrin can cut it in League One and if that’s the scenario Sunderland are preparing for; he makes their squad stronger.

In terms of the Championship, you do wonder whether Gorrin would find things as easy, particularly as there will be a demand within Sunderland to go well.

However, he’s another reliable body to