Breaking: A defender transfer race between Sunderland, Derby County, and Oxford United

According to a report from HITC, a number of EFL clubs are interested in signing Gateshead defender Kenton Richardson. Richardson began his career at Hartlepool United and stayed there until he was plucked by Sunderland back in 2020. After failing to establish himself in the first team at the Stadium of Light and going out on a couple of loan spells, he was released in 2022 and joined National League outfit Gateshead. The fifth-tier side pushed for promotion to League Two last season, and Richardson—who can play both a central defender and a right-back—played a significant role in getting them into the promotion mix. At just 24, the player still has plenty of time left to make the step back up to the EFL at some point

Richardson was once signed by the Black Cats, who are rumored to be interested in enticing him back to the club.

However, according to the same HITC source, the 24-year-old is also attracting interest from recently promoted Championship teams Derby County and Oxford United.

League Two team Notts County and League One teams Barnsley and Peterborough United are also interested in the player; however, it is unclear with whom he would sign as he is free agent.

Kenton Richardson might be a solid addition to any number of suitors.

Although the player’s versatility could be a huge advantage for his next team, he mostly played center defense last season, so if that’s where he’s best suited, that’s where he should be used.

Given Regis Le Bris’s plenty of choices, Richardson might find it tough to get too much playing time at the Stadium of Light. If he talks about a possible return, he should make sure he gets guaranteed playing time.

It might be hard for him to get playing time at Derby, but if Eiran Cashin leaves at some point, there might be room in the starting lineup for him.

Richardson may be able to surpass players like Jordan Thorniley and Stephan Negru in the hierarchy at Oxford, another club where he may have an influence.

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It has been reported that Sunderland has rejected several offers for midfield player Jobe Bellingham this summer.

Richardson’s playing time may be restricted if the U’s decide to add another center-back this summer, which would be surprising.

If the central defender signed with any of the three second-tier teams listed, it would be a significant upgrade.

Given that both the Tykes and Posh hope to contend for promotion the following season, moving up to the third division would also be a significant advancement.

Richardson needs to make game time a priority since it will enable him to continue growing, wherever he chooses to go next.

He would be best served by moving to a team far up the pyramid, but he must ensure that he is receiving enough playing time to contribute.

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