Alnwick wants out...

Young goalkeeper Ben Alnwick has handed in a transfer request as specualtion of interest from Spurs increases.

The England under-19 international looks set to leave Wearside despite having signed a two-year contract extension in March last year, tying him to the club until the summer of 2008.

An injury to first-choice Thomas Myhre saw Alnwick make his debut in April 2005 and he impressed during Sunderland's final three games of the season as they secured the Championship title and promotion.

And despite forcing out Kelvin Davis for number one spot during a five-game run in November, Davis regained his place for the rest of Sunderland's torrid season and Alnwick has expressed his wish to leave the club.

The youngster's decision seems somewhat odd bearing in mind the club is currently in negotiations with Niall Quinn and private investors to takeover the club. With a new man in charge, Alnwick would be given every opportunity to fight for the number one jersey. And with the club in the Championship and Kelvin Davis anything but an automatic choice, Alnwick would have every chance of becoming Sunderland's first choice goalkeeper.

Should he choose to join Tottenham however, he will undoubtedly find it harder to displace current England number one Paul Robinson.

But while one promising goalkeeper looks set to leave, another is set to stay as Trevor Carson has agreed terms on a one-year deal.

With Alnwick set to leave, it could well mean that the Northern Ireland youth international could become Sunderland's number two next season.

And wouldn't it be ironic should Carson find himself in the side next season as Alnwick watches another game from the comfort of the White Hart Lane bench.

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.