Burnley have continued to persist with an approach for Sunderland's 20-year-old midfielder Dan Neil, according to a report.
The central midfielder has featured regularly for the Black Cats in League One this season, scoring three goals and registering seven assists in 39 league appearances.
Such form had triggered interest from the Clarets when Sean Dyche was in charge, but despite the 50-year-old's sacking in April, the Premier League side have retained their interest according to The Sun.
The report outlines how Burnley scouts have continued to watch the England Under-20's captain despite being under the stewardship of Mike Jackson as things stand, and that the Lancashire side believe they can secure Dan Neil's services should Sunderland fail to earn promotion this season.
After finishing fifth in the third tier this campaign, Sunderland set up a playoff semi-finals tie with Sheffield Wednesday, with Alex Neil's side winning the first leg 1-0 at the Stadium of Light on Friday.
Should Burnley push ahead with a move for the midfielder in the summer, the report suggests that relegated Premier League side Norwich City also hold an interest in the 20-year-old, and would compete for his signature.
Matthew Tranter
