A Sunderland newspaper is strongly tipping Tommy Miller to leave the Black Cats and return to Town for a third spell. TWTD was first to break the news of former boss Joe Royle's interest in re-signing the 27-year-old and, according to today's report, new manager Jim Magilton also has Miller firmly in his sights.

Miller left the Blues on a Bosman free transfer last summer but scored only three goals in 31 games during Sunderland's disastrous season.

The Shotton Colliery-born player was released by the Blues as a 15-year-old schoolboy. He joined Hartlepool where he impressed, returning to Portman Road on a four-year deal in 2001 for an initial fee of £750,000.

Negotiations are still ongoing regarding a takeover of the Wearside club by a consortium led by former Republic of Ireland international striker Niall Quinn. Miller's exit from the Stadium of Light is unlikely to come before the takeover is concluded, which is reportedly imminent, perhaps even today.

The midfielder is a close friend of Jim Magilton and they even went on holiday together earlier in the summer.

Magilton will hope to land the penalty expert on a free transfer with only a year remaining on his contract. Sunderland may want a small fee for Miller's services with the Blues' ability to meet an asking price even in the low hundred thousands largely dependent on the success of the share issue which closes this Friday at 5pm.

Leeds United and Southampton, now managed by George Burley who brought Miller back to Town, are also said to be showing an interest, but the Blues are believed to be the frontrunners.

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