Hartlepool United have slapped a £500,000 price-tag on Jack Baldwin.
The Journal says Sunderland watched Baldwin impress in the weekend FA Cup clash with Coventry City, along with Premier League rivals Stoke City and Championship pair Blackburn Rovers and Huddersfield.
The 20 year-old can also step into midfield when required.
For breaking stories and all the great banter like us on Facebook: facebook.com/tribalfootball