Sunderland will recall goalkeeper Jordan Pickford from his Preston North end loan spell in January, according to a report.
The England Under-21s international is due to remain at Deepdale until next summer as part of his season-long deal, but the Black Cats intend to take up the option to bring him back.
According to Chronicle Live, Sunderland have a 10-day window at the beginning of next month to cut short Pickford's loan which they intend to utilise.
It is claimed that the 21-year-old could potentially rival Costel Pantilimon for the No.1 jersey upon his return to Wearside, having kept 11 clean sheets in 22 appearances for Preston.
Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly weighing up a January move for Pickford, who was sent to North End earlier this year due to cover being provided by Vito Mannone on the Sunderland bench.
