The sale of Sunderland is being considered, it has been revealed.

The Sunderland Echo says owner Ellis Short is reported to want £170million for the Black Cats, who are currently bottom of the Premier League and £140million in debt.

If an offer in line with Short's valuation of Sunderland is forthcoming then the American billionaire will consider it.

But no sale is imminent and the club will not be sold before the January transfer window.

It follows reports in The Sun that Short has engaged the services of New York-based investment bank Inner Circle Sports to tout the club to potential buyers.