JUST IN: Prior to the upcoming campaign, Sunderland’s midfield player is drawing attention.

Reporter Alan Nixon claims on his Patreon page that FC Halifax Town is now keeping an eye on Sunderland midfielder Caden Kelly.

Before the upcoming season, Sunderland must decide whether to loan the young player out this summer. After signing with the Stadium of Light in 2020, the prospect has been part of the organization’s records for the last four years.

The Black Cats granted Kelly, 20, his first professional deal in 2022, and it lasted until this year. On the other hand, his present club just declared that they had exercised their option to keep him on the retained list. Journalist Nixon stated on his Patreon that Halifax wants to entice him to the National League in the most recent update on his circumstances. The Yorkshire team placed seventh in the previous campaign, however they were defeated by Solihull Moors in the play-offs.

FC Halifax Town wants a midfielder from Sunderland.

Kelly spent time in the Manchester City and Salford City academies before joining Sunderland. He also attended the Football Flick Academy for a short time. Before moving up to the Under-21 squad, the Ireland-born player scored seven goals in 34 games for the Black Cats Under-18 team. Since then, he has scored 11 goals and contributed 13 assists in 47 games for the development squad.

Kelly has made two appearances for the first team, but the surplus of players at his position is now impeding his progress towards the senior squad.

Consequently, it would be wise for him to temporarily relocate to Halifax as this would further his development. He would benefit from moving to a squad in the fifth division that will be vying for promotion once more in order to gain some experience.

For Sunderland, what’s next?

Kelly’s short-term future at Sunderland will probably rely on what their new boss has in mind. They are still looking for Michael Beale’s long-term replacement following their dismal last campaign. On the last day, Mike Dodds’ tenure as interim manager came to an end. If the Black Cats want to contend for the playoffs the next season, they must make sure that their upcoming appointment is made correctly. In recent years, they have been associated with numerous names.