The Sunderland Echo are reporting that Sunderland have opened talks with Lyon midfielder Clement Grenier, regarding a full-time switch to the Stadium of Light.
Ligue 1 side Lyon are reluctant to let Grenier depart the French side on loan, but are willing to allow the former Newcastle United target to depart on a permanent switch if the deal suits both parties.
The French side have confirmed that they have received a bid from Sam Allardyce’s side regarding a deal for Grenier, who has been put on the transfer-list by Lyon, and the player himself is eager to leave.
Sunderland boss Allardyce is keen to make a few summer signings in the midfield department, which will bolster his options heading into the new season, with the Black Cats wanting to cement their spot in the Premier League.
The offer that Sunderland put on the table to Lyon still remains unknown, but the report from the Echo goes on to suggest that the deal is a permanent one, as Lyon are now interested in loaning out the midfielder.
It was only last summer that Grenier was linked with an exit from the French side, with newly-promoted Middlesbrough said to be the likely destination.
