Grant Leadbitter is ready to ask away from Sunderland.

The Mirror says Leadbitter is ready to leave his boyhood club Sunderland - to help cope with his dad's death.

The £2million-rated midfielder paid tribute after scoring against Arsenal in October when he kissed the turf at the Stadium of Light above the spot where his father's ashes are buried.

Leadbitter, 22, who has started just twice in the league this term, is still struggling with his grief and believes a move might help. Middlesbrough have shown an interest, as have Bolton.