Sunderland hero tipped for exit: Birmingham, West Brom & Coventry should be on red alert

With the January transfer window fast approaching, attention is turning to players whose futures could be decided ahead of a decisive second half of the campaign.

One such figure is Sunderland stalwart Luke O’Nien, a versatile performer and a key part of the club’s rise through the EFL in recent seasons.

The 31-year-old has been a constant presence at the Stadium of Light since arriving from Wycombe Wanderers in the summer of 2018 under Jack Ross, growing into a respected leader during a period of revival for the Black Cats.

That journey peaked with last season’s dramatic 2-1 play-off final victory over Sheffield United at Wembley, although O’Nien’s involvement was cut short after he dislocated his shoulder.

Since Sunderland’s return to the Premier League and a major overhaul of the squad under Régis Le Bris, his opportunities have been limited.

He has featured sparingly in the top flight, with one of his two league appearances ending in a red card against Manchester City.

According to reports from Alan Nixon via Patreon, O’Nien could be allowed to leave on loan in the coming weeks, a situation that is likely to alert several Championship clubs.

Football League World have identified three second-tier sides who could be particularly well placed to move for the experienced Sunderland man this winter.

Birmingham City

Birmingham’s struggles this season have often been linked to a lack of depth and physical presence in key areas, with Football Insider reporting that the club are already drawing up plans for January reinforcements.

One of the profiles reportedly being sought by Chris Davies is a powerful, robust midfielder – a trait many feel is currently missing from the Blues’ squad.

While Paik Seung-ho and Tommy Doyle offer technical quality, Birmingham have frequently been overrun physically, especially away from St Andrew’s @ Knighthead Park.

Although O’Nien was primarily used in defence during Sunderland’s climb through the leagues, his versatility would allow him to slot into midfield and add much-needed bite.

He could also provide cover at the back should Eiran Cashin’s loan from Brighton & Hove Albion be cut short, as some expect.

West Bromwich Albion

Elsewhere in the West Midlands, Ryan Mason is expected to be active in the market as he looks to strengthen his West Brom squad.

Albion’s performances on the road have drawn criticism, with questions raised over their resilience and vulnerability through the centre of the pitch.

While it is unlikely O’Nien would displace Nat Phillips or Chris Mepham as a first-choice centre-back, his adaptability could make him a valuable option for Mason in midfield.

Reports have suggested Sunderland midfielder Dan Neil is also on West Brom’s radar, but O’Nien would represent a reliable alternative.

His experience, aggression and calmness in possession would add balance, particularly with uncertainty surrounding the fitness of Manchester United loanee Toby Collyer, whose season has been disrupted by injury.

Coventry City

Coventry City have already been linked with a move for Dan Neil, but a wider look at Sunderland’s squad could see O’Nien emerge as another sensible option.

There is ongoing uncertainty over the future of centre-back Bobby Thomas, who has attracted interest from Brentford, Everton and Leeds United.

With Coventry firmly in the promotion hunt, any departure would be a major concern for supporters.

A short-term loan for O’Nien could help ease those fears, allowing him to partner Liam Kitching at the heart of the defence if required.

Given his limited Premier League minutes this season, a temporary move would make sense for all parties, while also giving Coventry the flexibility to pursue a higher-profile signing should they finally push for a return to the top flight after 25 years away.