SAFC Transfer Rumour Mill #5

There's just three days of the January Transfer Window left and Sunderland are yet to complete a deal.

We're not worried at Vital Sunderland and nor are Black Cat's supporters but the press are keen to continually link us with players.

The latest rumour doing the rounds is Hugo Almeida of Besiktas.

The powerful 27 year-old is a Portuguese international who would fit the physical mould which is apparently being targeted.

Martin O'Neill would be looking to take the forward on-loan but his club want £3m. Everton are also interested according to The Sunderland Echo.

As far as 'outs' are concerned, rumours persist that Craig Gardner will be off.

Today it's his younger brother Gary, still on the books at Aston Villa, who's pouring fuel on the fire.

Speaking to The Daily Mail, Gardner Jnr said:

'I think he does find it hard, but he is the type of lad to get his head down and just keep fighting.

'I am sure he would want to come back to the Midlands but he is a Sunderland player at the moment and I'd imagine the fans would want to keep him there.'

O'Neill still wishes to keep former Birmingham City midfielder Gardner at the Stadium of Light though.

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