Sunderland lining up £5m bid for Nir Bitton

SUNDERLAND are reportedly lining up a summer swoop for Celtic midfielder Nir Bitton, according to reports.

Nir Bitton, pictured during the Scottish League Cup semi-final against Rangers, is a target for Sunderland. Picture: John Devlin

The Israeli midfielder, who has thrived under Ronny Deila, could be the subject of a £5 million bid from the Black Cats, who ensured Premier League football next season this week after a hard-fought 0-0 draw with Arsenal.

The 23-year-old, who joined Celtic from homeland side Ashdod, signed for the Hoops for £700,000 on a four-year contract in 2013.

Sunderland boss and former Rangers manager Dick Advocaat is expected to make a decision on his own future in the next few days but it is understood that the club are keen on securing Bitton’s services regardless.

A Stadium of Light insider said: “Nir Bitton’s outstanding display against Inter Milan in the Europa League in February really brought him to our attention and we have been impressed with his consistently strong performances in the Scottish Premiership.”