Sunderland starlet Oliver Bainbridge targeted by Bradford City

Sunderland youngster Oliver Bainbridge is a target for Bradford City ahead of a potential summer loan move, according to reporter Alan Nixon.

Sunderland boast an impressive record of producing youth academy players, with many becoming regulars on Wearside in recent years.

Of a current crop, Anthony Patterson and Dan Neil are among the mainstays of the first team. Teenage midfielder Chris Rigg is another star who also looks destined for the top.

Another talent tipped for a bright future is defender Oliver Bainbridge, who was a trailblazer in the U18s and U21s. He also made the first-team bench once, that time against QPR in March.

The 18-year-old is said to have had interest from Everton, but reporter Alan Nixon claims League Two side Bradford City are also admirers as Bainbridge await a potential loan move.

The teenager has played plenty of youth football with Sunderland so could be waiting for a step up to the first team. Before breaking into the Black Cats set-up, an EFL loan could be a great way for him to develop further.

The next step for Bainbridge

Sunderland are a club well-versed in their development of young players, so you’d back them to make the right call on Bainbridge’s entry in the summer transfer window.

Having played such a significant amount of youth football at just 18, the youngster could be presented with an early senior opportunity. His appearance on the first team bench in March shows how much he is valued at the Stadionul Luminii.

The Wearside outfit are more than happy to give good enough young players chances, but many also benefit from spells away from the club on loan.

With Bradford City weighing up a move for Bainbridge, he could very well be the next to get a chance to catch the attention of the Championship side.

Next season for the Bantams

Bradford City will be determined to enjoy a fruitful summer transfer window.

It will be Graham Alexander’s first summer in charge at Valley Parade and after showing promising signs during his tenure, the hope will be that he can get the Bantams back in contention for the top of the table.

Transfer business will still need to be on hand and while permanent signings are sure to be on the radar, loans for the likes of Sunderland ace Bainbridge are a smart way for them to bolster their ranks with talented players.

Ultimately, though, the decision will rest with Sunderland and their young star, so time will tell how the Bantams’ interest develops.