Jack Colback set to become first player to move between North East rivals Sunderland and Newcastle in 17 years



Sunderland midfielder Jack Colback is in line to become the first player in 17 years to move between the North East's two biggest clubs.

The midfielder is set to leave the Stadium of Light when his contract expires - and he is set for a sensational switch to deadly local rivals Newcastle.

Talks over a proposed switch to St James' Park for Colback are at an advanced stage, with many at Sunderland believing his move from Wearside to Tyneside is now a formality.

Sensational switch: Sunderland midfielder Jack Colback is in line to join the Black Cats' rivals Newcastle Ready: Colback, who was born in Newcastle, is prepared to make the switch to St James' Park

Despite coming through the youth ranks at Sunderland having joined the club at the age of 10, Colback - who was born in Newcastle - is prepared to make the controversial move.

Colback would become the first player since Lee Clark, who left Newcastle for Sunderland in 1997, to move directly between the two clubs.

The former England Under-21 international isn't the only player preparing to leave Sunderland this summer.

Phil Bardsley, the current squad's longest serving player and Premier League appearance record holder, is set to leave when his deal expires at the end of the season - with West Ham and Fulham leading the chase for his signature.

Likewise, Craig Gardner, who is also out of contract this summer, is expected to join West Bromwich, provided the Baggies stay in the Barclays Premier League.