Bridges Link With Black Cats

First Division Sunderland have emerged as one of the contenders to sign the 25-year-old, who is available on a free transfer, after it became clear he is unlikely to be offered a permanent deal at Newcastle.

Bridges was on loan at St James’ from Leeds since January but was unable to force his way into the first-team, making only one start.

Black Cats boss Mick McCarthy has made his interest in the player known and will hope the chance to re-launch his career with the club at which he made his name as a teenager will prove attractive, despite having to drop down a division.

Fulham, West Brom, Bolton, Leicester and Southampton are also believed to be in the race for the striker who has 35 goals in 71 starts to his name.