Exclusive: Sunderland reignite interest in Leeds United player as key January decision looms

Sunderland are interested in signing Charlie Cresswell from Leeds United, sources have confirmed to Leeds All Over.

Leeds are reportedly in the process of negotiating with Millwall to terminate Cresswell’s loan at The Den, after a first-half of the season that’s seen the England U21 international struggle to nail down a consistent starting berth under Gary Rowett.

Phil Hay at The Athletic reported that news earlier today, also confirming that there was both loan and permanent offers being readied for Cresswell.

Leeds All Over has been told that Sunderland are one of those clubs interested in signing Cresswell, who they missed out on in the summer transfer window.

Despite Tony Mowbray succeeding Alex Neil at the Stadium of Light, it appears that their interest in the 20-year-old hasn’t disappeared.

Quiz: Can you remember Leeds United’s last 16 results v Aston Villa ahead of Premier League clash?

Cresswell has played 15 times in the Championship this season, scoring four goals for Millwall. 13 of those appearances have been starts, although the Leeds loanee hasn’t featured for Rowett in the league since the World Cup. He got his first 90 minutes of 2023 in the FA Cup third round defeat to Sheffield United at the weekend.

Sources have also indicated to Leeds All Over that Sunderland are interested in Joe Gelhardt, who could be loaned out if Leeds sign Georginio Rutter. However, Football League World report how Wigan Athletic are rivalling Swansea City already for the striker’s signature, with EFL competition said to be fierce for Gelhardt.