Report: Sebastian Coates close to Sunderland exit

Sunderland have reportedly sanctioned a loan exit for Sebastian Coates.

The Uruguayan centre-back has been a regular for the Black Cats this season, having made 22 appearances in all competitions.

However, according to Portuguese outlet A Bola, Coates is on the verge of finalising a six-month stint with Sporting Lisbon.

The report adds that Sporting will have the option to sign the 25-year-old on a permanent deal during the summer.

Coates joined Sunderland from Liverpool in July 2015.