Sunderland eyeing moves for free agent duo as Phil Parkinson targets further signings
and live on Freeview channel 276
The Echo understands that both players are genuine targets for the Black Cats as Parkinson looks to build upon the additions of Aiden O’Brien and Bailey Wright.
But neither individual has agreed terms with the Black Cats, with both players having numerous options to consider.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdBoth Garbutt and Fraser are currently without clubs having left Everton and Burton Albion respectively, and have both admirers in the Championship and in League One.
Full-back Garbutt has spent the last two seasons on loan in League One – firstly with Oxford United and latterly with Ipswich Town - and has consistently been regarded as one of the best defenders in the third tier. He also scored against Sunderland in last season’s 1-1 draw at Portman Road.
Parkinson believes that Garbutt has the attributes and attitude to fit well into his system and has made the Harrogate-born defender a target as he looks to bring in some competition to rival Denver Hume.
Ipswich, who took Garbutt on loan last summer, remain interested in a permanent deal for the left-sided defender.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdFraser, meanwhile, has spent the last two seasons with Burton Albion but turned down the offer of a new contract at the Pirelli Stadium this summer.
He has regularly drawn plaudits for his performances under Nigel Clough having previously turned out for Dundee United in the Scottish top tier.
But the 25-year-old is also the subject of second tier interest after netting nine times for the Brewers last season.
Sunderland are prepared to be patient in their bid to bring in new faces, with Parkinson keen to ensure the right players are recruited as he looks to build upon the positive atmosphere that has been cultivated within the Academy of Light.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdParkinson is keen to bring in at least five more new players this summer, with a goalkeeper, centre back and attacking reinforcements high on his wishlist.