Sunderland will explore the possibility of signing Wolves defender Dion Sanderson on a permanent basis at the end of the season.
The 21-year-old has turned in a string of impressive performances under Lee Johnson which have helped propel Sunderland back into the promotion reckoning and he is establishing himself as a fans' favourite.
Tuesday's 2-0 win over Fleetwood Town pushed the Black Cats into fifth place in League One with optimism high following the club's recent takeover by Kyril Louis-Dreyfus that they can get back into the Championship.
The 21-year-old has turned in a string of impressive performances under Lee Johnson this year
Sanderson is on loan from Premier League Wolves but, with competition fierce at Molineux, the young defender is understood to be open to a move in the summer so that he can play more regularly and continue his progression.