Sunderland and Everton do battle for Championship star

Sunderland are expected to now face competition from Everton in the race to sign star Reading winger Stephen Hunt according to the Guardian.

Sunderland boss Roy Keane is said to have been on the trail of the Republic of Ireland midfielder since January and now Everton boss David Moyes is understood to have been keeping an eye on the star.

Reading had turned down numerous bids from Sunderland back in January as they looked to compete for their place in the Premiership. However, the now relegated Reading look resigned to losing some of their star players, with Hunt expected to leave during the summer.

Hunt had only agreed to a new contract back in February which expires in 2011, however this new contract is believed to have a buy-out clause of around £4.5 million, the price Reading will demand from any club wanting to sign the player.

Hunt, 26, was voted Readings ‘Player of the Year 2007/8’ after impressive performances on the wing despite the clubs relegation. His performances were rewarded with a call up to the Republic of Ireland squad in 2007 and he has since represented the national side 11 times.

The Guardian claims that Sunderland may be Hunt’s ideal move, with a strong representation of Irish players and staff at the Stadium of Light, but the appeal of European football at Everton may yet sway Hunt’s decision.

[Source: The Guardian]