Newcastle United midfielder Jack Colback 'not on Sunderland radar'

Sunderland manager Chris Coleman has ruled out a January move for Newcastle United midfielder Jack Colback, according to a report.

The 28-year-old was linked with a return to the Stadium of Light earlier this week, three-and-a-half years after controversially crossing the divide.

Coleman is hopeful of bringing in as many as five new recruits once the transfer window reopens, but the Sunderland Echo suggests that Colback is not among his targets.

Sunderland will instead look to bring in players on loan, with attacking options a priority due to the threat of Lewis Grabban being recalled by Bournemouth.

Colback is free to leave Newcastle in the New Year after falling way down the midfield pecking order under Rafael Benitez this term.