Sunderland close in on Healy

Mick McCarthy has confirmed that signing Celtic midfielder Colin Healy is still possible, and an option he wants to pursue - and imminent departure of keeper Thomas Sørensen to Aston Villa might help speed Healy's move to us.

Today's Journal reports that Villa chairman Doug Ellis hopes to secure Sørensen today or tomorrow, which would enable him to link up with his new colleagues on their pre-season tour of Scandinavia.

Sørensen, 27, signed for Sunderland shortly after our previous relegation to the first division in 1997 and has made 171 appearances for us, his place as a Sunderland legend secured on 18th November 2000 when he prevented Alan Shearer from equalising with a penalty, giving Sunderland a 2-1 victory on the Mags' own home turf for the second year running.

Gavin McCann signed for David O'Leary only last week for £2.25m, and Mick McCarthy hopes that additional funds from the sale of our Danish keeper - once classed as one of Sunderland's "crown jewels" - will bring the signing of Healy a step closer.

"If I can bring players in he is one I am very interested in. He knows that, he's aware of that, he's a free agent.

Cardiff City have reportedly offered 23 year old Healy a trial at Ninian Park, but as we told you yesterday, Healy has already told his agent that the Stadium of Light is his destination of choice next season, working for his old international gaffer. However one or two more sales, even after that of Sorensen, might still be necessary before McCarthy can strengthen his squad.

Mick continued, "There are a number of players who were put on the list - there is interest, but nobody has come in with a solid offer yet. I would love to sign Colin Healy, that's no secret.

"That one is not finished."