JONNY EVANS is due to meet Sir Alex Ferguson within the next 48 hours when the promising defender will be given an indication of his chances of returning to Sunderland next season.

Ferguson, keen to meet up with the 19-year-old ahead of this weekend's FA Cup final with Chelsea, wants to recruit new players this summer and his success on that front could influence where the centre-back will be playing come August.

After ending his loan spell at Sunderland with a Championship winner's medal, Evans would welcome the opportunity to return on similar terms for the Black Cats' return to the Premiership.

His hopes could have been strengthened by the development that another of United's young defenders, Gerard Pique, has been told he will not be allowed to stay at Real Zaragoza and that he will be required in Manchester next season.

But, given the high regard he is held in by the coaching staff at Old Trafford, Ferguson is reluctant to make a decision on Evans' future at this stage.

And, although Evans expects to be hanging around Old Trafford until the eve of the new campaign in 13 weeks, the defender said: "Sir Alex Ferguson wants me to go in and see him this week, and I would like to speak to him too. I don't know what his thoughts are, but I would like to find out.

"If Manchester United want me back, then I want to play for Manchester United. If the manager wants me to go out on loan again for another season, then I want to go back to Sunderland.

"I enjoyed myself there, we achieved what we set out to achieve and I would have no problem in going back there."

Sunderland manager Roy Keane has made no secret of his desire to take Evans back, but realises his best chance is to seal another loan deal.

Sunderland goalkeeper Darren Ward has been left in no doubt about the player's potential, and his worth to the club should he return there in August.

"Jonny has been fantastic," said Ward. "For a player who is young he does not lack any composure.

"He has built up a great understanding with all of the back four and myself, he was a fantastic signing.

"You would expect him to be quieter because of his inexperience but he has clearly been schooled by one of the best clubs around.''

The launch of Sunderland's new away kit, designed by Umbro, will be held on June 28, while the new home kit will be launched on July 26.