By Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

23rd Jun, 2023 | 2:30pm

Sunderland and Birmingham City plotting to sign Hoffenheim star Bogarde - sources

Championship duo Sunderland and Birmingham are plotting moves for Hoffenheim’s Melayro Bogarde, sources have told Football Insider.

The defender, who can play at centre-back, right-back and defensive midfield, could be allowed to leave Hoffenheim on a free transfer this summer despite still having a year to run on his contract.

News of Bogarde’s potential availability has alerted both Birmingham and Sunderland – he fits the profile of the type of players they are looking to sign.

Bogarde, 21, spent last season on loan at PEC Zwolle in Holland after slipping down the pecking order at Hoffenheim.

Hoffenheim beat a number of top clubs across Europe, including Arsenal, Man United and Man City to sign Bogarde in the summer of 2018 from Feyenoord.

He remains the youngest Dutch player to ever play in the Bundesliga.

Bogarde is the nephew of former Chelsea and Holland defender Winston Bogarde and the older brother of Aston Villa’s Lamare Bogarde.

The youngster made 12 appearances for PEC Zwolle in the 2022-23 campaign as they were promoted to the Eredivisie.

He has racked up 37 career senior appearances since making the grade at Feyenoord and even has experience in the Europa League.

Sunderland and Birmingham could be set to battle it out for his signature as they try to bolster their defences ahead of the 2023-24 season.

Football Insider revealed on Wednesday (21 June) that Sunderland, Ipswich and Stoke City make approaches for Everton striker Ellis Simms as their summer business continues.

Meanwhile, Birmingham have completed the signing of Tyler Roberts from Leeds United.

In other news, Burnley plot raid to sign Championship star.