Sunderland AFC gossip: Cats linked with former Premier League player as Joey Barton suffers transfer blow

Bristol Rovers manager Joey Barton looks on prior to the Sky Bet League One match between Northampton Town and Bristol Rovers.

Lee Johnson’s men have an opportunity to cement a third trip to Wembley in three seasons as Sunderland look to gain promotion to the Championship through the play-offs.

Here, though, we take you through all of the latest Black Cats related transfer talk and League One gossip:

Sunderland named three trialists in their under-23 squad to face Stoke City yesterday. And Tyrese Dyce, formerly of Premier League side West Brom, started the game at left back. The youngster also featured against Stoke in the side’s final game of the regular season. (Sunderland Echo)

Kevin Phillips has welcomed proposals that will see Sunderland receive a portion of a £100million windfall from the Premier League. “Off the top of your head you think about £100million and yeah, wow, that’s huge money,” Phillips told the website. (Football Insider)

Gillingham have already had a number of enquiries for transfer-listed striker John Akinde. The 31-year-old has been made available by the Gills along with defender Christian Maghoma. (Kent Online)

Bristol Rovers captain Luke Leahy has secured a move to League One club Shrewsbury Town on a free transfer following The Gas’ relegation in a blow for Joey Barton. (Bristol Live)

Ipswich Town are said to be one of a number of clubs monitoring midfielder Alex Hunt's situation at Sheffield Wednesday. (Sheffield Star)

Doncaster Rovers have appointed Richie Wellens as their new first-team manager. That the 41-year-old has completed his return to the Keepmoat where he spent two spells as a player. (Doncaster Free Press)