Sunderland fans must hope Titus Bramble helps them get loan target Joe Willock this week

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It was reported earlier this week that Sunderland are lining up Arsenal youngster Joe Willock. The report from Football Insider suggests that the Black Cats are looking to bring the 19-year-old in on loan from the Gunners in January. They face competition from teams in the Championship, Holland and France but feel comfortable a deal can be done.

His recent form would suggest Sunderland are right to be keeping tabs. The teenager scored twice against Forest Green Rovers for the under-23s in Checkatrade Trophy action last week. It took his tally to five goals in eight games this season from central midfield. Such form has seen him train with the Arsenal seniors recently and Sunderland are right to be targeting him.

However, with the apparent competition, Sunderland certainly have a tough task doing so.

This week could, therefore, prove critical. Willock is with the England under-20 squad for an upcoming fixture with Germany in Colchester.

He is joined in the team by a current promising youngster at Sunderland. Elliot Embleton is currently out on loan at Grimsby Town but the Black Cats have high hopes for his future at the Stadium of Light.

There is also a recent former Sunderland player among the coaching staff. Titus Bramble is a rare breed of player to have played for both Newcastle and Sunderland.

Whilst his three years at Sunderland were marred by injury problems he had a good rapport with fans and was excellent in his first season on Wearside.

He would, no doubt, have nothing but good things to say about the club’s excellent facilities and fans if Willock asked him for advice during the international break.

Sunderland fans will hope he is talked into such a move. Because his dynamism in midfield could be a major asset to the club’s promotion push.